Former teacher praises benefits of organic farming
Former Cicia school teacher, Iliesa Koto, yesterday heaped praises about the benefits of organic farming on their island in Lau.
He said organic farming would only be successful if it was supported by all those involved.
“In our case all islanders including the students supported the concept since it was introduced,” he said.
A release on organic farming said: “The essential difference between organic and conventional farming is that conventional farming relies on chemical intervention to fight pests and weeds and provide plant nutrition. “Organic farming relies on natural principles like biodiversity and composting instead to produce healthy, abundant food.” Mr Koto said the products of organic farming were healthy and nutritious because they were always fresh.
Advantages of organic farming:
■ Farmers can reduce their production costs because they do not need to buy expensive chemicals and fertilisers.
■ Healthier farm workers.
■ In the long term, organic farms save energy and protect the environment.
■ It can slow down global warming.
■ Fewer residues in food.
Mr Koto said in Cicia organic farming practice started in the island’s schools.
He said a major benefit of organic farming was that very little money was used and in many cases no money was used.
Organic farming relies on natural principles like biodiversity and composting instead to produce healthy, abundant food. Iliesa Koto Former Cicia school teacher