The promotion of certified organic production It is consolidated as a priority for public policies and the agricultural sector itself, reflecting both the growing social demands for sustainability and the strategic guidelines outlined by the European Union. The goal is to reach 25% of agricultural land under ecological standards is one of the goals included in the "Farm to Fork" and Biodiversity strategies, essential aspects to respond to the new challenges of food demand and environmental problems.
The bet for a more respectful agricultural model with the environment not only seeks to satisfy an increasingly aware population, but also to provide concrete answers in areas such as fight against climate change, The preservation of natural resources and transition towards healthy and sustainable food systemsThis approach, defended by institutional leaders such as Amaia Barredo, stresses the importance of balancing agricultural productivity with the protection of soil, water and ecosystems around us.
Certified ecological transition aid: bases, budget and recipients
The Government has given the green light to a new Call for aid specifically aimed at facilitating the transition from conventional agricultural practices to certified organic productionFor next year, the allocated budget amounts to 300.000 Euros, covering different types of support linked to the creation of guidelines for incorporation and feasibility studies, such as Project demonstrations, visits, comprehensive advice and the development of specific conversion projects.
These aids provide two main lines: on the one hand, the technical advice accompanied by the transfer of knowledge in the agricultural and forestry areas; on the other hand, Financing of projects to transform conventional farms into organic onesThe package of measures is designed to support producers, cooperatives and other actors, seeking a gradual and non-exclusive integration of both productive systems.
La financing will come entirely of the General Budget of the Basque Country, reaffirming the institutional commitment to sustainability in the territory. Among the notable actions is the promotion of technical studies, training activities, demonstration visits, and an advisory network to facilitate the procedures and feasibility of conversions.
Characteristics of certified organic production
La certified organic farming It is characterized by the use of methods that exclude synthetic products, antibiotics and transgenics, prioritizing the biodiversity protection, the reduction of polluting waste and the efficient use of resources such as water. European regulations, of which Spain is the main reference in terms of productive surface area, establish the requirements for qualifying for eco-labels and also inspire new forms of certification applied to other environments, such as urban green spaces.
A paradigmatic example is the case of the Alamillo park in Seville, which has obtained the CAAE Eco-Sustainable Space Seal. Management in these environments involves avoid herbicides and pesticides, promote native species, use reclaimed water for irrigation and minimize the acoustic and light impact. The commitment to biological control solutions It involves using bats, birds or beneficial insects to regulate pests, demonstrating the viability of respectful and balanced maintenance of the environment.
La ecological certification for parks and gardens includes almost 70 requirements and incorporates controls on the working conditions of staff, the use of electrical machinery and the commitment to the circular economy, such as composting of waste.
Examples of success and expansion of organic certification
Model certified organic production It is not limited to the traditional agricultural sector. Throughout Spain, different spaces such as botanical gardens—notably the one in Castilla-La Mancha in Albacete—, equestrian facilities, and even shopping centers have achieved certification, applying the principles of ecological management and respect for the natural environment.
In the botanical garden of Albacete, for example, systems of biological pest control and conservation of endangered native species, while other urban spaces have implemented measures such as efficient water management, reducing light pollution, or creating habitats for local wildlife. These initiatives contribute to the renaturalization of cities and serve as an example for the extension of ecological standards outside the strictly agricultural sphere.
La CAAE certification, promoted by the Andalusian Committee for Organic Agriculture, has marked a step forward in the recognition of these sustainable spaces, establishing a specific standard that is already becoming a European benchmark.
The future of agriculture and certified organic production
Demographic projections and environmental challenges impose a thorough transformation of food systems. The world's population is expected to reach nearly 10.000 billion people by the end of the century, placing increasing pressure on agricultural resources. The increase in demand for food It must be compatible with nature protection, reducing the use of fertilizers and pesticides, and innovation in production and distribution systems.
Therefore, measures such as certified ecological transition aid and the extension of quality and sustainability seals play a fundamental role in the change of model. Promoting new sources of protein, modernizing irrigation systems, or reducing food waste are lines of work in which organic certification can offer high standards of assurance for both producers and consumers.
Support initiatives They not only facilitate access to technical and economic resources, but also contribute to building knowledge and dissemination networks, promoting acceptance and confidence in the certified organic production as an added value in today's markets.
La bets on certified organic production It involves combining innovation, environmental respect, and institutional support, integrating producers, technicians, and public officials into a model that gains recognition and support within and outside the agricultural sector.
