IFOAM - Organics International calls for stop to subsidizing unsustainable farming practices on International Biodiversity Day

IFOAM Head Office e.V

(PresseBox) (Bonn, 26.05.2015) The widespread practice of large monocultures and the use of chemicals in agriculture are causing a decline in biodiversity. We therefore call for the adoption and effective implementation of a standalone goal on sustainable agriculture as part of the Sustainable Development Goals to put an end to subsidizing unsustainable agriculture practices.

Biodiversity is crucial to sustainable development and human wellbeing, e.g. more than 70,000 plant species are used in traditional and modern medicine. Intensive agriculture is a root cause of biodiversity loss globally. By not using harmful pesticides and fertilizers, organic farmers are preserving biodiversity and organic farms provide a home to 30% more species and 46-72% more semi-natural habitats than their conventional counterparts.

However, in many countries and regions around the world, agricultural policies still support monocultures and intensive farming based on pesticides and fertilizers to the detriment of both more sustainable forms of agriculture and global food production. According to Gábor Figeczky, Advocacy Manager at IFOAM - Organics International, "It is high time to cease subsidizing unsustainable farming practices that are contributing to climate change, threatening biodiversity and hindering sustainable development."

On this International Day for Biological Diversity, IFOAM - Organics International therefore calls for:

- The adoption and effective implementation of a standalone goal on sustainable agriculture as part of the SDGs;
- A halt to subsidies for unsustainable farming practices;
- The creation of a policy environment conducive to truly sustainable agricultural practices such as organic.

"To grow healthy food, we need biodiversity and the services provided by ecosystems. By endangering them, we are putting our ability to nourish the world at risk," continues Figeczky. Organic Agriculture does not use chemicals that harm biodiversity. Organic farmers work with nature not against it. Supporting Organic Agriculture means supporting and safeguarding the variety of life on earth.