Organic Farming and Agriculture

Lush Green Field

In a world grappling with escalating environmental crises and pressing public health concerns, organic farming has transcended its status as a mere trend. It has emerged as the indispensable future of agriculture. This isn't just about how we grow food; it's a fundamental shift in our relationship with the planet, a philosophy of sustainability that champions natural processes over synthetic interventions.

Organic farming minimizes the use of artificial fertilizers, pesticides, and growth regulators. Instead, it relies on ecological balance, focusing on biodiversity conservation and overall environmental sustainability. It's an active engagement with nature, recognizing that a healthy ecosystem is the foundation for healthy food.

Kazakhstan's Organic Farming and Agriculture

Kazakhstan, a nation with vast agricultural potential, stands at the cusp of an organic revolution. While its organic farming sector is still nascent, the opportunities are immense. Currently, over 200,000 hectares of Kazakh farmland are cultivated using certified organic methods, primarily under European certification bodies. This is just the beginning.

Unlocking Kazakhstan's full organic potential requires a concerted effort. This includes developing and implementing more efficient growing technologies, stimulating investment in the sector, and empowering agricultural workers through education and capacity building. These measures are crucial to expanding organic agriculture and increasing its share in the nation's agricultural exports.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in a strategic partnership with the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan, is spearheading this transformation. Their systematic work has been instrumental in developing the necessary legal and regulatory frameworks, along with adopting various financial mechanisms to incentivize organic farming. The UNDP has also supported pilot certification programs for key agricultural commodities, laying the groundwork for broader adoption.

The Power of Certification and Policy

Certification is the bedrock of trust in organic agriculture. It provides a vital bridge between producers and consumers, guaranteeing that products meet rigorous organic standards. In Kazakhstan, this is a growing movement, with the Ministry of Agriculture reporting 38 certified organic farms to date.

Kazakhstan's commitment to organic farming is further solidified by progressive policy. In 2015, the nation enacted the Law "On the Production and Turnover of Organic Products." This landmark legislation established a comprehensive framework encompassing the legal, economic, social, and organizational aspects of organic production. Its goals are clear: to ensure the rational use of land, promote healthy nutrition, and protect the environment.

Building on this foundation, rules for subsidizing certification costs were adopted, and national standards for organic products, including a mark of conformity, were put into effect. The roadmap for the development of organic agriculture for 2022-2023 further demonstrates the government's forward momentum.

These new regulations, standards, and financial support mechanisms are accelerating the transition to more sustainable farming practices. The Kazakh government continues to champion new laws and innovations, aiming to integrate organic farming as a truly vital component of its national agricultural system. While conventional agriculture may still hold economic appeal, the undeniable toll it takes on our ecosystems and public health cannot be ignored.

Organic farming offers a crucial path to balance nature and production. It's a journey that may be long, but the direction is clear, and the effort is undoubtedly worth it.