Decline in Organic Farming Continues Across Sweden, Most Affected Region is Dalarna
Sweden's organic farming sector faces continued decline, notably in Dalarna.
Key Points
- • The number of organic farmers has decreased for the fifth year in a row.
- • Dalarna has seen the largest drop in organic farms recently.
- • Farmer Kajsa Petersson switched to conventional farming due to high costs.
- • Chairman Erik Wiklund warns of increased chemical use with fewer organic farms.
The decline in organic farming in Sweden has persisted for the fifth consecutive year, with the region of Dalarna seeing the most significant drop in organic farms, as reported by the Swedish Board of Agriculture. Dairy farmer Kajsa Petersson from Horndal has recently transitioned from organic to conventional farming, citing prohibitive costs as a primary reason for her decision. "While many consumers want to choose organic, rising food prices have influenced their decisions," she remarked, highlighting the pressure that economic factors are placing on consumer choices.
Erik Wiklund, chairman of organic farmers, expressed deep concerns regarding this ongoing trend. He warned that as organic farming diminishes, there may be an increased reliance on chemical inputs in agriculture, which could have various environmental implications. The decline raises important questions about the future of sustainable farming practices in Sweden, signaling a potential shift in agricultural policies that prioritize affordability over environmental considerations.