Organic farming policies contribute to biodiversity conservation, water resource management, and climate change mitigation by promoting practices that enhance soil health, reduce reliance on synthetic inputs, and foster diverse ecosystems, ultimately leading to a more resilient and sustainable agricultural system.

Dear Doctor

Climate Change and Organic Agriculture

• August 2009
• Journal of Food Agriculture and Environment Vol 10
• DOI: 10.3126/aej.v10i0.2136
• Ram Chandra Khanal

[Abstract

This paper attempts to explore some research findings focusing on the climate change impact on (organic) agriculture and agriculture impact on climate change through a literature review. This review reveals that climate change and agriculture are closely linked and interdependent. Compared to conventional agriculture, organic agriculture is reported to be more efficient and effective both in reducing GHGs (CO2, CH4 and N2O) emission mainly due to the less use of chemical fertilizers and fossil fuel. Organic agriculture also reported to be climate change resilience farming systems as it promotes the proper management of soil, water, biodiversity and local knowledge there by acting as a good options for adaptation to climate change. But, due to lack of proper research, the contribution of organic agriculture for climate change adaptation and mitigation is yet to be known in the Nepalese context. It is argued that organic agriculture positively contributes to offset negative impacts of climate change, but there is inadequate systematic data to substantiate this fact.]

Himanshu Tiwari

Policies supporting organic agriculture significantly contribute to the preservation of biodiversity, water resource management, and climate change mitigation. Organic farming reduces the use of chemicals, thereby protecting ecosystems and supporting the diversity of plant and animal species. Additionally, practices such as crop rotation and the use of organic fertilizers improve soil structure, increase water retention capacity, and reduce the risk of erosion, effectively managing water resources. In terms of climate change mitigation, organic farming helps reduce the emission of carbon dioxide and other gases by decreasing the use of synthetic fertilizers and increasing carbon storage in the soil. Additional strategies, such as promoting agroecological solutions, investing in research and development, providing economic incentives for sustainable practices, and educating consumers, can further enhance these environmental benefits.

Existing organic farming policies promote biodiversity conservation, water management and climate change mitigation through sustainable practices. These policies encourage crop diversification and habitat preservation, reducing monoculture related biodiversity loss. By banning synthetic fertilizers and pesticides they enhance soil microbial diversity and pollinator populations. Water resource management benefits from organic mulching, crop rotation and biofertilizers which improve soil moisture retention and reduce water pollution. Climate change mitigation is supported by carbon sequestration in organic soils, reduced greenhouse gas emissions from chemical inputs and agroforestry incentives. Policies like India's Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) integrate these principles to foster environmental sustainability.