The beginning of the organic farming can be found at the early 20th century in Europe. One of its pioneers Rudolf Steiner raised the biodynamic farming principles in 1924, Germany. Its basic belief was that a farm is a united living organism which increases its strength of fertility with biodynamic principles.
At the same time organic farming appeared in England. Its founder was Sir Albert Howard whose compost research asked people to go back to the soil and not to chemicalize it. Soil Association in the UK is one of the most active participants in the EU in the development of organic farming standards. No wonder the term “organic farming” is used in the EU documents.
By contrast, Swiss Hans Muller developed another course in his farm – organic farming. The idea of a “living soil” where fertility is provided by natural microbiological processes was on its basis.
In1980s the organic farming flourished in the USA, Canada, Australia and Japan too. Not only farmers but also agricultural product processors and merchants got involved. Special legislation was established and organic farm subsidising was started. At the beginning of 90s the EU adopted the organic farming regulations.
Organic farming in Latvia developed after the restoration of country’s independence. More and more farms produce organic products moving away from chemical fertilizers, chemical plant protection products and the use of GMOs. Natural farming and “green lifestyle” principles are the basis of a truly healthy diet.
