Why is Organic Farming More Sustainable?

As the agriculture industry has grown tremendously over the past century, the search for the most sustainable methods has too. Many are looking to see whether organic farming practices are more sustainable than industrial ones, and if it is plausible to use them to help our planet. Organic farming relies on the values that everyone and everything involved is healthy. This means that the people, the animals, the crops, and the soil are all thriving. This means that the practices often rely on the natural cycle and environment that the crops/animals are grown in, for example, planting different types of plants all together (biodiversity) to mimic a natural growth of crops and therefore making it healthier. The use of pesticides is also not allowed, which means that the soil becomes healthier, which is crucial for sustainability. Biodiversity also decreases the need for pesticides overall. Organic farming also allows for the soil to absorb more water due to it being healthier, meaning the water use of an organic farm is lower than that of a conventional one. With fresh water being a finite source on our planet and something many people lack, using less of it for agriculture can help support other communities. Organic farming also strives to rely solely on renewable energy, which decreases carbon emissions. By promoting soil health and using renewable energy sources, organic farming can reduce agriculture’s greenhouse gas emissions tremendously. The fact that no pesticides are used also reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Overall, making the shift to organic farming will have very positive effects on the earth and can provide a way for the future of agriculture to be more sustainable!