Organic farming is the process of producing food naturally. This method avoids the use of synthetic chemical fertilizers and genetically modified organisms to influence the growth of crops. The main idea behind organic farming is 'zero impact' on the environment. The motto of an organic farmer is to protect the earth’s resources and produce safe, healthy food.
Farmers plan to grow their crops without the aid of artificial fertilizers and harmful chemical pesticides. Organic ranchers and dairymen raise their livestock free of drugs and animal hormones. Supporters of organic lifestyle believe that food produced in this manner is of higher quality and possesses higher nutritional value in comparison to food produced by conventional, chemical-based methods.
Organic farming is a form of agriculture that relies on techniques such as crop rotation, green manure, compost, biological pest control, and mechanical cultivation to maintain soil productivity and control pests on a farm. Organic farming excludes or strictly limits the use of synthetic fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, plant growth regulators, livestock antibiotics, food additives, and genetically modified organisms.
Organic agricultural methods are internationally regulated and legally enforced by many nations, based in large part on the standards set by the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM), an international umbrella organization for organic organizations established in 1972.
IFOAM defines the overarching goal of organic farming as follows: "Organic agriculture is a production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems and people. It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than the use of inputs with adverse effects. Organic agriculture combines tradition, innovation and science to benefit the shared environment and promote fair relationships and a good quality of life for all involved.."