|
Organic farmers are shutting shop.. why?
|
|
Organic food over the last 5 years has become a trend setter style of life - with the rich and the famous leading the way.
Whether it is starting their own line of cosmetics, opening an eco shop or collaborating with other organic producers. Though it seems even the rich and famous are struggling to keep the organic sector from sinking and farmers shutting shop. With many farmers across the UK turning their backs against organic farming. Why? The biggest issue is the rising costs - it has impacted on everything to do with farming and raising livestock through to running your own home. Farmers have seen grains increase threefold, heating costs have effected many families across the country as well as the general daily living costs. Not that long ago, 2002 actually, the NFU at the time said the entire organic industry was at risk. This was due to imported products arriving into the UK, which were cheaper than the organic produce being sold. Organic production can be at least 30% - 40% more expensive then standard production. Farmers and producers have high certification costs when having a label for example through the Soil Association. In addition, Farmers are required to pay ongoing fees to be certified. So what could be done to help present Farmers not turn away? Could there be a way that the Soil Association who certifies over 70% of the organic produce sold here in the UK reduce their fees? Encourage the Government to support Organic farming more and thus reduce any levies or penalties - at the same time the EU Government as well. When times are tough, livelihood ideally takes a simple step and less complex. This would not only help the end consumer - but the whole chain production of a product whether it is cosmetics or even the farmer who requires to source organic grains to feed their livestock. By enabling these costs to be reduced during a certain period, it will not only enable farmers to continue production, new producers to be encouraged but most importantly enable organic food to be purchased by all - whether you are rich, famous or an ongoing organic food supporter who has been so for the past 20 years! Our Farmers are important - for the whole process - whether it is producing food for us, but also for our wildlife. Perhaps we should all adopt a farmer? Help our Farmers stay Farmers... |
