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A short guide to Organic, and why it is important to the planet

Greta Jonyniate | 12.09.11

September marks the annual celebration of all things organic and here at Greenhouse PR we are very passionate about it. We would like to encourage everyone over the course of this month to ‘give organic a go’ and learn more about the benefits that organic offers us, our soil, our animals and wildlife -promising a healthier planet for all of us.

Organic farming does not use synthetic pesticides and is good for the soil

Organic farming works in harmony with nature rather than against it. This involves using techniques to achieve good crop yields without harming the natural environment or the people who live and work in it. Over the last thirty years, intensive farming in the UK has led to dramatic erosion of the soil, a fall of up to 70% of wild birds in some areas, the destruction of ancient hedgerows, and the near extinction of some of the most beautiful species of butterflies, frogs, grass-snakes and wild mammals. Organic farming releases less greenhouse gases than non-organic farming - choosing organic, local and seasonal food can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

Organic foods are healthy, GM free & taste better!

You may be surprised to know that over a million tonnes of GM crops are imported each year to feed the majority of non-organic livestock which produce pork, bacon, milk, cheese and other dairy products. Going organic is the only practical way to avoid eating genetically modified (GM) food. Fresh organic produce contains on average 50% more vitamins, minerals, enzymes and other micro-nutrients than intensively farmed produce. When you buy organic food you know that it’s not covered in a cocktail of poisonous chemicals. The average conventionally-grown apple has 20-30 artificial poisons on its skin, even after rinsing. Trust your instincts, and go organic!

Organically raised animals are more ethical

Organic standards insist that animals are given plenty of space and fresh air to thrive and grow - guaranteeing a truly free-range life. Organically raised animals are not given antibiotics; the overuse of antibiotics in factory farms has contributed to pollution problems and outbreaks of many deadly diseases. Organic farms are havens for wildlife and provide homes for bees, birds and butterflies. In fact, the UK Government’s own advisors found that plant, insect and bird life is up to 50% greater on organic farms.

Organic clothing is one way to live a "greener" lifestyle that supports the environment

Organic materials are grown toxin-free, reducing the amount of toxic chemicals we ingest and release into the earth. If you have skin sensitivities, the pesticides, herbicides, chemicals and artificial dyes present in regular cotton can aggravate dermatological conditions.