Organic farming more profitable than usual?

2001/06/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Nekazaritza

We have heard many times that the production of organic products is more expensive than those that have grown by conventional methods. Also, seeing the prices we pay, we have come to believe it is. However, according to a study by a group of scientists at Washington State University with apples, it doesn't have to be that way. On the contrary, organic farming is more profitable than conventional agriculture.

To carry out the research, the researchers divided a plot into three and used a different method in each section for the cultivation of planted apple trees. In the first section the organic system was used, that is, compost and manure were used as fertilizer, controlling pests through protective crops, padding and mechanical methods. In the second, the traditional method was used, that is, chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers were used. In the third part both methods were combined.

The results show that in the plot preserved by the organic system the greatest energy efficiencies and economic returns were obtained. In addition, the soil quality of this plot was better and the apples collected from its trees were somewhat sweeter than others. Reading the news seems, therefore, that there is no fundamental reason to continue paying more for organic products. However, the opinion of farmers using the biological method on this news should be heard.