New study questions whether organic farming is worth the effort
New research conducted by the University of Leeds has investigated the myths surrounding organic food and poses the question: is organic farming really worth the effort in terms of health and environmental benefits?
The answer to this will not please organic food fans and those in organic food jobs, as the study contradicts claims that organic agriculture is beneficial for local wildlife. It found that the benefits of avoiding pesticides and chemical fertilisers to certain species of animals and birds are minimal and not justified compared to the need to produce enough food for a rapidly rising population. In conclusion, researchers found that standard farms produce more than double the amount of food per hectare than organic farms.
Other results included:
• Organic farmers may cause surrounding farmers extra costs due to the weeds they allow to flourish by not using herbicides
• On average, organic farms had 12 per cent more biodiversity than standard farms
• Yield from organic farms was more than 50 per cent lower than normal farms (both types growing similar crops)
The study also supports research conducted by the Food Standards Agency, who claimed that consuming organic food had no significant health benefits. Author of the study, Tim Benson, explains what the results may mean for organic farming in the UK:
Do you think organic farming is worth it? Feel free to leave your comments.
The answer to this will not please organic food fans and those in organic food jobs, as the study contradicts claims that organic agriculture is beneficial for local wildlife. It found that the benefits of avoiding pesticides and chemical fertilisers to certain species of animals and birds are minimal and not justified compared to the need to produce enough food for a rapidly rising population. In conclusion, researchers found that standard farms produce more than double the amount of food per hectare than organic farms.
Other results included:
• Organic farmers may cause surrounding farmers extra costs due to the weeds they allow to flourish by not using herbicides
• On average, organic farms had 12 per cent more biodiversity than standard farms
• Yield from organic farms was more than 50 per cent lower than normal farms (both types growing similar crops)
The study also supports research conducted by the Food Standards Agency, who claimed that consuming organic food had no significant health benefits. Author of the study, Tim Benson, explains what the results may mean for organic farming in the UK:
"As the biodiversity benefits of organic farming are small, the lower yield may be a luxury we can't afford, particularly in the more productive areas of the UK."
Do you think organic farming is worth it? Feel free to leave your comments.
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