Dispelling myths of organic agriculture

Several natural substances are restricted and synthetic substances are permitted in organic agriculture.

Organic agriculture is not just a philosophy but a well-researched science. It is a living unit or a system that integrates soil, crops, animals and society. After the two world wars, numerous chemicals used in the wars were repurposed. Explosive Nitrogen compounds were used as fertilisers, and the nerve agents became pesticides. The military developed the first herbicides during the Second World War. In the initial days, such chemicals boomed agricultural production and continued till concerns were raised about their negative impacts. The book Silent Spring (1962) by Rachel Carson contributed to the awareness about the harmful effects of these chemicals on the environment and human health. Gradually, people and organisations started expressing their concerns about organic agriculture and preserving the environment.