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The idea behind organic farming is to work in harmony with nature to produce food that is healthier, more environmentally friendly, promotes biodiversity and complies with strict criteria for animal welfare. It also aims to use energy resources more efficiently, reduce harmful emissions and control waste.

How it works

Organic farming avoids the use of fertilisers and pesticides that damage the environment and are potentially hazardous to our health. Crops are rotated to improve soil fertility and natural environments and wild spaces are preserved to protect wildlife and encourage natural predators. The number of animals farmed is strictly controlled to reduce stress, attention is paid to appropriate and nutritious feed and they must have easy access to the outdoors. Organic farming is a more sustainable solution.

What it means to us

According to the Soil Association:

• around 30% of the average consumer's carbon footprint comes from their food choices.
• studies by English Nature and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds have shown that there are more birds, butterflies, bats and wild flowers on organic farms than on non-organic farms.
• around 31 000 tons of chemicals are used in non-organic farming in the UK each year to kill weeds and pests.
• the UK Government has said that organic farming is better for wildlife, causes lower pollution from sprays, produces less carbon dioxide and fewer dangerous wastes

Who's buying organic?

The Soil Association's 2009 Market Report indicates that organic food sales have taken a knock as consumers feel the credit crunch. Organic shoppers have cut back on premium products and prepared foods but remain focused on cutting waste and cooking from scratch: sales of organic home cooking ingredients increased by an astounding 13.5% in 2009!

The report shows that there is a core of consumers who may be cutting back but are determined to stick to their organic principles. Thirty-six per cent of these committed organic consumers say they expect to spend more on organic food in 2009, and only 15% expect to spend less. Animal welfare issues attracted a high public profile in 2008 and sales of organic milk, cheese, some meat and poultry grew by 10.6%, 11.5%, 13.3% and 17.7% respectively, demonstrating that where the benefits of organic production are understood, commitment remains firm among ethical consumers.

How can I make a difference?

The Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and local authorities have launched Wiltshire World Changers to engage volunteers, communities, environmental groups and businesses across the county in projects aimed at 'bringing about a real change in the way people live and think to create a Wiltshire - and a world - which future generations can enjoy as we do today'. http://wiltshireworldchangers.org/what-is-WC.php

The Soil Association website also has a section to help you locate organic businesses and producers in your area: http://www.soilassociation.org/