Organic farming employs natural methods of growing plants and caring for animals, rather than the use of chemicals such as pesticides. Organic products are becoming increasingly popular as people become more aware of their environmental and health benefits. As a result, it's not surprising that more organic options are now available, and the number of farmers' markets offering fresh and organic products has increased.
The price is the most common reason why some people avoid buying organics. It is because they are often more expensive than their non-organic counterpart. However, since it costs more and requires more effort to grow organic products, they are worth their price. Furthermore, they provide numerous health and environmental benefits, making them even more valuable. Some of the advantages are as follows:
1. Helps in Fights Against Global Warming
Organic farming aids in the fight against global warming because it avoids the use of chemicals that may emit toxic substances during production and use. Furthermore, the Rodale Institute Farming Systems Trial, which has been comparing the effects of organic and conventional agriculture since 1981, found that organic agriculture has positively contributed to slowing the effects of climate change and lowering carbon dioxide levels in the environment.
2. Conserves Water
As previously stated, healthy soils do not require much water, so it is one method of conserving water. Organic farming also keeps water clean and safe from chemicals that may leach from waste disposed of in the production of conventional farming tools such as herbicides and pesticides. It could cause water pollution, putting aquatic animals in danger. Furthermore, there would be fewer clean water sources that were safe to drink.
3. Healthier for Soil
Organic farming practices improve soil health. It all comes down to the fact that it is chemical-free. Furthermore, healthy soils require less water than conventional farming soils.
4. Prevents Erosion
Healthy soil is good for the environment. It also prevents erosion, which could lead to a disaster resulting in floods, property damage, injuries, and, in the worst-case scenario, human and animal deaths.
5. Prevents Algal Blooms
Non-organic fertilizer runoff may contaminate the water and cause algal blooms. HAB, or harmful algal blooms, have the potential to harm fish and other aquatic organisms. Furthermore, its negative consequences may include the closure of fisheries and the interruption of the water supply. It also has an impact on the tourism industry, particularly those that rely on these bodies of water as attractions. They may also close as a result of this.
Aside from the above-mentioned benefits of organic farming, it also reduces human and animal health risks by lowering residue levels in the product. It contributes to the long-term viability of agricultural production.
