AQW 10911/17-22

Mr John Blair
Alliance Party
South Antrim

Tabled Date: 24/11/2020
Answered On Date: 05/01/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the impacts that organic farming has on biodiversity.

Answer:

A range of studies indicate that biodiversity benefits are enhanced on farms operating to certified organic standards.

By prohibiting use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, certified organic agriculture can enhance the environmental value of crops for invertebrates, farmland birds and mammals. Allowing field margins and headland to develop and flower provides a vital source of nectar for pollinators.

Through regular cultivation, organic crop rotation systems help to avoid soil compaction and excessive weeds, making the land less susceptible to drought and water saturation. Recycling nutrients in manures and composts also benefit soil structure and quality. These practices help to support a diversity of plant species and wildlife.