Genetic modification of crops

• Main articles: Genetically modified crops, Genetically modified food, and Genetically modified food controversies
• A key characteristic of organic farming is the rejection of genetically engineered plants and animals.
• On October 19, 1998, participants at IFOAM’s 12th Scientific Conference issued the Mar del Plata Declaration, where more than 600 delegates from over 60 countries voted unanimously to exclude the use of genetically modified organisms in food production and agriculture.
• GMOs are excluded from organic farming, there is concern that the pollen from genetically modified crops is increasingly penetrating organic and heirloom seed stocks.

Organic farming and biodiversity

• An average of 30% more species inhabits organic farms.
• Birds, butterflies, soil microbes, beetles, earthworms, spiders, vegetation, and mammals are particularly affected.
• Lack of herbicides and pesticides improve biodiversity fitness and population density.
• Many weed species attract beneficial insects that improve soil qualities and forage on weed pests.
• Soil-bound organisms often benefit because of increased bacteria populations due to natural fertilizer such as manure, while reduced intake of herbicides and pesticides.
• Species found in organic farms enhance sustainability by reducing human input (e.g., fertilizers, pesticides)

OA and climate change

• Reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions. (Report of FAO)
• The ability of organic agriculture to be both a significant carbon sink and to be less dependent on fossil fuel inputs has long‐term implications for global agriculture and in Nepalese agriculture as well.
• The net GHG emissions in organic agriculture are found 48-66% lower as compared to inorganic farming in Europe (Stolze et al, 2000).
• 20% increase in soil organic matter as a result of organic agriculture would result in a decrease of about 9 tons of carbon emission per ha (Khanal, 2008).
• Organic agriculture relies on the carbon bank and stimulated soil microbial communities to increase soil fertility, improve plant health and support crop yields