Assessing the consequences of converting to organic agriculture

In the wake of the public controversy over genetically modified crops, orga nic production is sometimes hailed as the true "sustainable agriculture". I ts advocates claim that it enriches biodiversity, increases soil "health" a nd provides more nutritious foods. This paper summarises the results of a t hree year; multi-disciplinary study of one major unit undergoing transition from non-organic to full organic status. Researchers examined whole farm n utrient budgets, insect diversity and the wider environmental economics of organic production compared with non-organic management. The result was a m id-term example of multi-disciplinary science, though some way short of int erdisciplinary science. The evidence suggests that organic production can r esult in measurable environmental gains, which can be valued in economic te rms. The full environmental account, however, remains elusive. Yet its sign ificance could prove vital for the future of diversified rural economics in the UK. Interdisciplinary minded agricultural and environmental economists are encouraged to extend this pilot initiative in the light of the importa nt policy contribution that such additional research could provide for the improved valuation of sustainable agriculture. The authors conclude that th ere is a plausible case for an Organic Stewardship Scheme attached to the R ural Development Regulation.