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The implications of phasing out conventional nutrient supply in organic agriculture: Denmark as a case

Oelofse, Myles; Jensen, Lars Stoumann and Magid, Jakob (2013) The implications of phasing out conventional nutrient supply in organic agriculture: Denmark as a case. Organic Agriculture, 3, pp. 41-55.

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Document available online at: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13165-013-0045-z


Summary

Soil fertility management in organic sys- tems, regulated by the organic standards, should seek to build healthy, fertile soils and reduce reliance on external inputs. The use of nutrients from conventional sources, such as animal manures from conventional farms, is currently permitted, with restrictions, in the organic regulations. However, the reliance of organic agriculture on the conventional system is considered problematic. In light of this, the organic sector in Denmark has recently decided to gradually phase out, and ultimately ban, the use of conventional ma- nures and straws in organic agriculture in Denmark. Core focal areas for phasing out conventional nutrients are as follows: (1) amendments to crop selection and rotations, (2) alternative nutrient sources (organic wastes) and (3) increased cooperation between organic livestock and arable farmers. Using Denmark as a case, this article discusses the background and impli- cations of the strategy to phase out conventional ma- nure and straw, and explores possible solutions to the challenge of ensuring a sustainable nutrient supply to organic systems. Alternative strategies to ensure nutri- ent supply will require a tapestry of small solutions. One element of this tapestry is to review the volume and type of nutrient sources available in alternative, non-farm organic waste streams and consider their suitability for use in organic systems.


EPrint Type:Journal paper
Subjects: Soil > Soil quality
Food systems > Recycling, balancing and resource management
Soil > Nutrient turnover
Farming Systems > Farm nutrient management
"Organics" in general > History of organics
Research affiliation: Denmark > Organic RDD 1
ISSN:1879-4238
DOI:10.1007/s13165-013-0045-z
Deposited By: Magid, Assoc. Prof. Jakob
ID Code:27911
Deposited On:11 Dec 2014 13:40
Last Modified:11 Dec 2014 20:50
Document Language:English
Status:Published
Refereed:Peer-reviewed and accepted
Additional Publishing Information:The final publication is available at link.springer.com

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