Naturland Certification: Beyond Organic Standards
Anil Mathew Varghese
Organil Services (Registered Organic Regulatory Certification Consultancy/Training/Advisory/Assessment/ Accreditation Consultancy) Mobi # +91 8606551335
In the ever-evolving landscape of agricultural certifications, Naturland stands out as a comprehensive and progressive scheme that goes beyond traditional organic standards. While organic certification focuses primarily on the prohibition of synthetic chemicals and GMOs, Naturland encompasses broader socio-economic and environmental criteria, aiming to create a holistic and sustainable agricultural system. This article delves into the Naturland scheme, highlighting its distinctive features and comparing it with conventional organic certification.
Understanding Naturland Certification
Naturland is an international association based in Germany that promotes organic agriculture and sustainable management practices across the globe. Founded in 1982, Naturland has grown to certify over 100,000 farmers, beekeepers, and aquaculturists in more than 60 countries. The organization's mission is to foster ecological, social, and economic sustainability through stringent standards that apply not only to agricultural practices but also to the entire value chain, from production to processing and trading.
Naturland is connecting organic farmers and consumers all over the world. Naturland is about change and transformation. In community, we are working on an agricultural revolution for a future worth living. Together. Organic. Worldwide.
Key Components of Naturland Certification
1. Ecological Standards: Like traditional organic certifications, Naturland prohibits the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). However, it goes further by encouraging biodiversity, soil fertility, and water conservation practices. Crop rotation, composting, and the use of organic fertilizers are mandated to maintain soil health and prevent erosion.
2. Social Standards: One of the defining aspects of Naturland is its emphasis on social justice. The certification requires fair working conditions, fair wages, and the right to collective bargaining for workers. Child labor is strictly prohibited, and the welfare of farm workers and their families is a priority.
3. Animal Welfare: Naturland sets stringent animal welfare standards. Livestock must have access to open-air runs, ample space, and appropriate shelter. Practices that cause stress or pain to animals are minimized, and the use of antibiotics is tightly regulated, only permitted for treating illness rather than as a preventive measure.
4. Processing and Handling: The Naturland standards extend beyond the farm. Processing and handling of products must adhere to organic principles, ensuring that no harmful chemicals are introduced at any stage. This includes restrictions on additives, preservatives, and artificial flavorings.
5. Sustainability and Climate Protection: Naturland emphasizes sustainable resource management and climate protection. Measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, and waste are integral to the certification. Renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies are encouraged.
6. Global Applicability: While Naturland is rooted in Germany, its standards are applicable worldwide. The organization works with farmers and processors globally, adapting standards to local conditions while maintaining a high level of ecological and social responsibility.
Comparison with Traditional Organic Certification
Organic certification, as defined by various national and international bodies (such as USDA Organic, EU Organic, and others), primarily focuses on the elimination of synthetic inputs and the promotion of natural farming techniques. While effective in reducing chemical usage and promoting healthier farming practices, traditional organic certifications often lack comprehensive social and broader environmental criteria.
Broader Scope
Naturland's certification encompasses not only organic agricultural practices but also stringent social and animal welfare standards, making it more holistic. Traditional organic certifications do not typically include detailed social criteria or address fair labor practices explicitly.
Environmental Stewardship
Although both certifications promote environmental sustainability, Naturland places a stronger emphasis on climate protection and the sustainable use of resources. For instance, Naturland explicitly encourages renewable energy use and has specific guidelines for reducing carbon footprints, which are not always a primary focus in standard organic certifications.
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Social Responsibility
The inclusion of social standards in Naturland certification highlights its commitment to fair labor practices and worker welfare, areas often overlooked in traditional organic standards. This makes Naturland certification more aligned with the principles of fair trade and social equity.
Naturland certification represents a significant advancement in the realm of agricultural certifications. By integrating ecological, social, and economic dimensions, Naturland offers a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to farming and food production. It not only ensures the organic integrity of products but also promotes fairness, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship. For consumers, this means that Naturland-certified products are not only organic but also produced with a higher level of care for people and the planet.
As the demand for ethical and sustainable products grows, certifications like Naturland are poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of agriculture. They provide a blueprint for a more sustainable and equitable food system, demonstrating that it is possible to produce food in a way that respects both nature and human dignity.
Naturland Certification Schemes available are as follows :
Recommendations for Stakeholders
By embracing Naturland's holistic approach, stakeholders across the agricultural value chain can contribute significantly to a more sustainable and equitable world.
About the Author
Anil Mathew Varghese the Founder of Organil Services registered in india niche focussed unto Organic Certification Regulatory Consultancy as per respective Country Food Organic Standards. Organil Services evolves the following roles such as : Organic Standard Organic Procedure policy content Creation,Organic Certification Assessment Plan (OCAP) with Seven Stage Organil Services CODEX Compliance, Audit trail GAP Assessment mock, Mass balance & Traceability validation, External Organic Food Audit, Pre Certification assessment, Second party processing or pre export inspection, Organic Staff orientation to the Standards, Training, Platforming Organic Standard Accreditations, Organic Documentation support and all customised with Solutions.
?? Profile Epilogue of Anil M V
:? Experience Total 24 years
* Working Roles expedite : Landscaping Engineer, Horticulturist, Project Manager, Agricultural Educator, Farm Manager, Organic Auditor, Assessor, Operation Manager.
* Educated 15 years in Nigeria, Born in Sierra Leone
**Educated from Bharathiar University, Allahabad University,University of Georgia.? Organic Certification Body 9 years?
Countries Worked: Kuwait, Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania, Bangladesh, South Africa, Dubai, IndiaContact
Mobi # +91 8606551335 Email : [email protected]
Admin Email : [email protected] Website : www.organil.org
Organil Services (Registered Organic Regulatory Certification Consultancy/Training/Advisory/Assessment/ Accreditation Consultancy) Mobi # +91 8606551335
6 个月?? As consumers become increasingly conscious of the impact of their purchases, certifications like Naturland provide a valuable assurance of genuine commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. ?? For producers, aligning with Naturland can mean not only compliance with high standards but also leadership in the global movement towards a more sustainable future.
Organil Services (Registered Organic Regulatory Certification Consultancy/Training/Advisory/Assessment/ Accreditation Consultancy) Mobi # +91 8606551335
6 个月?? Its comprehensive certification scheme sets it apart from traditional organic certifications by addressing broader aspects of sustainability, including social responsibility, climate protection, and stringent animal welfare standards.
Organil Services (Registered Organic Regulatory Certification Consultancy/Training/Advisory/Assessment/ Accreditation Consultancy) Mobi # +91 8606551335
6 个月?? Naturland aims to integrate sustainable practices across all stages of production, emphasizing ecological balance, social responsibility, and economic viability. ?? ?? This broad vision is encapsulated in Naturland's slogan: "Organics for a sustainable future." ??