A new green agriculture label may take on organic. IS organic farming really as green as its reputation? Certainly, nobody can fault rotating crops and planting what grows best in a given area, but ordinary farmers also use such methods. Organic farming fundamentally rests on two sets of practices. One is limiting the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. The other is creating, in the words of the Soil Association, a “holistic method of farming that is supposed to work with—rather than against—natural systems”. Healthy soil is at the heart of this practice. — The Economist
Brit bees in strife. Britain’s honeybees have suffered catastrophic losses this year, according to a survey of the nation’s beekeepers, contributing to a shortage of honey and putting at risk the pollination of fruits and vegetables. — The Guardian
Assisted Colonisation: Saving Species or Creating New Invasives? The impacts of climate change on ecosystems are occurring sooner and more rapidly than often predicted. Traditional conservation techniques may not be up to this unprecedented challenge. A new report published in the journal Science champions “assisted colonization”–small, controlled introductions of well-understood species between similar ecosystem regions–as one possible solution. — EarthTrends
Driving down, parking up in USA. Rising petrol prices continue to drive people away from their cars – the drop in U.S. driving in the last eight months exceeds the total decline during the 1970s fuel crisis. — Grist
Interesting there’s no mention of biodynamic agriculture or certification in the article taking organic to task. The environmental and business benefits of biodynamic are being realised by such Western Australian companies such as Cullen Wines, certified with the Biological Farmers Association. Vanya Cullen, Qantas/The Wine Magazine Winemaker of the Year (2000) and 2008 Drinks Business Award Woman of the Year, says she believes in creating a successful business by working with nature rather than against it. She will give a biodynamic viticulture presentation at the Australian Institute of Management in Perth on September 25.