Biodynamic Farming Method for Sustainable Production of Quality Food

Rositsa Beluhova Uzunova, Dimo Atanasov

Abstract: Biodynamic agriculture is an organic farming method that could provide ecological, economical and physical sustainability. Biodynamic agriculture was a subject of research during the past decades although part of the scientific community looks at the method with skepticism. In the past 30 years there have been published results of experiments as well as case studies that show the effects of biodynamic preparations on yield, soil quality and biodiversity. The case studies presented a positive environmental impact in terms of energy use and efficiency. The concept of biodynamic agriculture is gaining popularity because of the rising challenges coming from climate change, resource scarcity and population growth. Such alternative practices are viable methods that could make farming systems more diverse and sustainable. The aim of the paper is to underline the basic definitions and history of biodynamic farming, describe the main features of this method and to present different studies and case trails compering biodynamic, organic and conventional agriculture. An overview of different long term trails on biodynamic farming is done. The results show that these systems generally have better soil and product quality and equal or greater net returns per hectare than conventional farms.

Keywords: biodynamic farming; preparations; sustainability; yield

Date published: 2018-01-31