Publication Name

BALKAN VITAL GRAPHICS

BACKGROUND

MINING

WATER

NATURE

Organic farming: a progressive

outlook in mountain ecosystems

Shelves in western Europe are increasingly laden with

“organic” products and growing numbers of consum-

ers are giving preference to quality food rather than

standardized imported tomatoes and frozen chicken.

This trend could be very promising for the Balkans, but

there is still a long way to go before their share of organic

food production can rival with that of countries such as

Austria or Switzerland. Although the natural conditions

in southeast Europe – climate, soil and variety of plants

– look pretty favourable, the market does not yet seem

ready to accept organic products from the region. This

may change in the future with increasing awareness and

a wider range of products on offer, as has been the case

in other parts of the world. It will take time for organic

goods labelled “Balkan Produce” to establish consumer-

loyalty but the strict certification systems already in force

should make all the difference. Organic farming is more

than just a source of healthy food and different produc-

tion methods. It is a modern development model for ag-

riculture integrating environmental, socio-economic and

ethical factors. Southeast Europe is among the leaders

of this trend, with plenty of capacity and high potential.

The Balkans have a lot to offer.

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Organic farming in Europe