The principles of organic livestock farming

Summary

Organic livestock farming is guided by naturalness, systems thinking and sustainability, and the four IFOAM principles of Health, Ecology, Fairness and Care. The Principle of Health emphasises the interconnectedness of different parts of the system and promotes high animal health through systems design and prevention. The Principle of Ecology implies the integration of livestock with crops for feeding and nutrient recycling on the farm or in the region. The Principle of Fairness points towards respect for animal rights, and the Principle of Care places responsibility for the humane treatment of animals on the people who work with them. Organic standards and the EU Regulation on Organic Production state that organic livestock farming should meet species-specific behavioural needs and restrict the use of external inputs. This chapter illustrates that achieving high animal health and welfare requires active engagement from the whole sector, from farmers to consumers, including regulators, advisors and researchers.