Organic Agriculture has a very decisive role to play in the current world scenario where Food Security and Food Safety are highly challenged. However, the potential of organic farming is not fully realized by many. In its report 'Organic Agriculture and Food Security' the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) has identified organic agriculture as a Priority Area for addressing both local and global food security challenges. FAO proclaims Organic Farming as the single window solution for fighting hunger and food scarcity, tackling climate change – a venture good for farmers, consumers and the environment. World over the importance of Organic Agriculture and demand for organic products are increasing at a phenomenal rate. In the past few years, expanding global markets for organic foods have seen annual growth rates of 15 to 40 %. This growth is more prominent in Europe, theUnited States andJapan. Due to the enhanced awareness for healthy food among the consumers all over the world, market appreciation of organic products has gone up tremendously.
Aquaculture is the fastest growing food sector. But marine fish farming has been heavily criticized for its environmental impacts, including pollution from fish waste and uneaten food, escapees, chemicals to control disease and parasites, and ecological impacts of sourcing raw materials from the sea to produce fish. We need to take organic aquaculture seriously and be fully committed to finding solutions. Organic aquaculture will offer many exciting opportunities, provided there is a willingness to promote its produce. Fish farmers need to be more open to organic principles, while those involved in promoting and regulating organic food need to understand the fundamental differences and characteristics of farming in water.
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