Since the globe gained its freedom, one of the most severe issues has been the production of sufficient food to satisfy the needs of a growing population. Although the variety of high-yielding agricultural methods has contributed to the creation of a food excess throughout the world, it has also raised concerns about the health of the soil and the contamination of the environment. The use of synthetic pesticides in agricultural areas raises further worries since it can potentially reduce the nutrients the soil can provide other crops.

Because of this, the development of organic agricultural practices has emerged as an essential topic for the people, the environment, and the government. It offers a variety of advantages for the three separate spheres, particularly concerning the health of the environment. But before we get into the benefits, let's first take a moment to discuss what organic farming is.

Organic farming is a kind of agriculture that uses biologically based pest controls and biological fertilizers that are mainly obtained from the waste products of plants and animals. Nitrogen-fixing cover crops are also used in organic farming. Conventional farming practices, which use chemical pesticides and artificial fertilizers, are known to harm the environment. As a result, modern organic farming was established as a solution to this problem. Organic farming has several positive effects on the environment.

Restricts the Application of Dangerous Pesticides

When it comes to organic farming, dangerous chemicals, and pesticides are strictly prohibited. There are no unwanted animals or insects here. Because they reduce the quantity of food that can be produced or are generally annoying to people, some insects, animals, and invading plants have been called "pests" by human beings. Humans have developed pesticides, which are chemicals that kill unwanted organisms but can have a negative impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

Because of this, organic farmers do not use poisonous pesticides or other chemicals to keep pests at bay. Instead, they want to use more natural approaches, such as cover crops, composting, and crop rotation, to achieve their goal of pest management.

Keeps the Ground in Good Physical Condition

As was said before, the soil becomes contaminated when chemicals and pesticides are used. If the soil in which the produce is grown is unhealthy, the food grown there cannot be healthy. The soil must be capable of surviving without the assistance of additives since they will ultimately drain the soil of its resources.

Before planting their crops, organic farmers consciously decide to treat their soils with natural preventive fertilizers. Composting, which incorporates a wide variety of beneficial microorganisms that contribute to the improvement of the soil, is an essential practice to keep the ground in good condition.

Reduces Erosion

Erosion naturally decreases due to organic farming's ability to restore healthy and robust soil. It is unlikely to occur when the soil is densely populated with a diverse array of organisms and has reinforced ties. On the other hand, using toxic chemical fertilizers often results in the ground being compacted or dried up, leading to erosion.

Erosion has repercussions that extend beyond the soil itself. The land is harmed, and people have fewer food supplies when the soil is eroded and washed away. In addition, organic farmers reduce the time spent tilling their fields, which helps prevent soil erosion by reducing the number of times the soil is turned over.

It results in cleaner water.

Water is essential to all living things, including people, animals, and plants. Everyone bears the consequences when access to clean water is limited. The majority of the issue with water contamination is often caused by agricultural methods that are not organic.

The lack of access to clean water is a very significant risk. Since it does not include potentially hazardous chemicals, organic farming contributes to maintaining a clean and secure water supply. As water from agricultural soils enters waterways like rivers and streams, it carries several contaminants that may harm human health.

Mulching and soil amendments used by organic farmers help to minimize runoff, which in turn helps to preserve water. In addition to that, they pay attention to how much water they use for irrigation.

Reduces Reliance on Nonrenewable Energy Sources

Farming methods that do not adhere to organic standards contribute to climate change. Greenhouse gases are likely released into the environment at every stage of the production process, from the farm to the consumer's plate. The machinery used to produce and harvest crops is powered by fossil fuels, the animals raised for agricultural purposes consume food that contributes to climate change, and the fertilizers employed directly release emissions.

Try to prevent the growth of algae blooms.

Blooms of algae have the potential to cause damage to the surrounding ecosystem. They pose a threat to human health as well as the life that lives in the water. They often occur due to runoff from agricultural areas carrying pesticides and fertilizers. They spread uncontrollably and are challenging to eradicate once established.

They have not only a negative impact on the environment but also on the economy. Algal blooms make it impossible for those whose livelihoods depend on working in the ocean or lakes to do their jobs. Organic farming avoids using potentially dangerous fertilizers like those, which may contribute to algae blooms.

Promotes a Richer Biodiversity

The more diverse a farm is, the better it is, and farmers that practice organic farming are aware of this idea. The farm is more resilient and able to fend off invading species when it has a greater variety of plant and animal life.

A diverse ecosystem, including plants, animals, and microbes, may improve the health of animals and the soil. This is because they can collaborate to stop the spread of disease and erosion, eliminating the need for artificial fertilizers and pesticides.

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Sources:

1. Organic Vegetable Farming; A Valuable Way to Ensure Sustainability and Profitability | IntechOpen
2. Organic farming | Definition, History, Methods, Practices, & Benefits | Britannica
3. 7 Benefits of Organic Farming on the Environment - Environment Co