Organic farming is based on four principles:
These principles express the contribution that organic agriculture can make to the world. They are inter-connected ethical principles that inspire the organic movement in all its diversity. They guide the development of our positions, programmes and standards. Here's what they mean:
Principle of Health
Healthy food from organic farming systems builds healthy humans. Healthy food starts with healthy soil and pure water that support healthy plants and animals.
Principle of Ecology
Healthy farming is based on emulating and sustaining natural systems.
Principle of Fairness
Healthy societies are based on equity, respect and justice for all living things.
Principle of Care
A healthy future means caring for the generations to come byprotecting and restoring land and water to good health.
For more information on the principles and how they are put into practice download the Principles of Organic Agriculture brochure.