Assessing the Consequences of Converting to Organic Agriculture
通过三年跨学科追踪一个农场从传统转向有机的过程，发现有机生产能带来可衡量的环境效益并具有经济价值，但完整的环境账目尚不明确，呼吁更多研究以支持政策制定。
In the wake of the public controversy over genetically modified crops, organic production is sometimes hailed as the true “sustainable agriculture”. Its advocates claim that it enriches biodiversity, increases soil “health” and provides more nutritious foods. This paper summarises the results of a three year, multi‐disciplinary study of one major unit undergoing transition from non‐organic to full organic status. Researchers examined whole farm nutrient budgets, insect diversity and the wider environmental economics of organic production compared with non‐organic management. The result was a mid‐term example of multi‐disciplinary science, though some way short of interdisciplinary science. The evidence suggests that organic production can result in measurable environmental gains, which can be valued in economic terms. The full environmental account, however, remains elusive. Yet its significance could prove vital for the future of diversified rural economies in the UK Interdisciplinary minded agricultural and environmental economists are encouraged to extend this pilot initiative in the light of the important policy contribution that such additional research could provide for the improved valuation of sustainable agriculture. The authors conclude that there is a plausible case for an Organic Stewardship Scheme attached to the Rural Development Regulation.