Organic Processing and Trade Association

Four Principles of Organic Farming

The organic farming approach was developed in 1920’s. In the 1980’s the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement established the four basic principles of Health, Ecology, Fairness, and Care as the roots from which organic agriculture grows and develops. These four principles express our vision to improve all agriculture in a global context.

Principle of Health

Organic agriculture should sustain and enhance the health of soil, plant, animal, human and planet as one and indivisible.

Principle of Fairness

Organic agriculture should build on relationships that ensure fairness with regard to the common environment and life opportunities.

Principle of Ecology

Organic agriculture should be based on living ecological systems and cycles, work with them, emulate them and help sustain them.

Principle of Care

Organic agriculture should be managed in a precautionary and responsible manner to protect the health and well-being of current and future generations and the environment.