Report confirms that organic farming can contribute to world food security and tackli

[S.Annadana]

Report confirms that organic farming can contribute to world food security and tackling climate change
PRESS RELEASE 04/15/2008 (version 1)
Categories: Press Releases 2008 | Downloads and other links


Organic agriculture can contribute to delivering global food security, help tackle climate change, protect soils and conserve wildlife. So recognises a four year study involving 400 scientists from around the world as well as 30 governments and the same number of NGOs.

The International Assessment of Agricultural Science and Technology for Development (IAASTD) report criticises industrial agriculture for being “too narrowly focused” and calls instead for a more holistic systems-orientated approach to food production and farming.

Soil Association campaigns director, Robin Maynard said,
“This is exactly what organic farming at its best achieves – producing the same amount of food for 26% less energy than chemical based farming; delivering a greater variety and number of wildlife species; and because it doesn’t depend on vast quantities of expensive agrichemicals is more accessible and adaptable to smaller scale poorer farms in developing countries.”

The report’s authors raised doubts as to the GM industries current claims to be the solution for either poverty, world hunger or climate change.

The International Assessment of Agricultural Science and Technology for Development Synthesis Report was released today.

Read the report: IAASTD NGO DISCUSSION