The potential of organic agriculture, soil structure and farmers income for inclusive agriculture sustainability: a review

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture integrates three main objectives - environmental health, economic profitability, and social-economic justice. Organic farming is an alternative to sustainable agriculture that is more inclusive and has become a widespread phenomenon. Globally, the amount of land cultivated with some form of organic agriculture continues to grow. The sustainability of organic farming cannot be separated from the economic dimension, other than the environmental and social dimensions. Organic farming is not only limited to eliminating the use of synthetic inputs that can cause land degradation due to damage to soil structure, but also the sustainable use of natural resources, healthy food production and saving energy. The potential of organic farming in improving soil fertility is improving the physical and chemical properties of soil with the use of organic materials, and good management of organic farming can increase soil fertility. Economic aspects can be sustainable if agricultural production is able to meet the needs and provide sufficient income for farmers. Economic motivation now controls the direction of developing organic agriculture. Organic Agriculture can ensure stable and sustainable alternative livelihoods, especially in situations where land is available and offers opportunities for improvement, this is supported by the awareness of the dangers posed by the use of synthetic chemicals in agriculture making organic farming attract attention both at the level producers and consumers alike. Most consumers will choose food that is safe for health and environmentally friendly, thus encouraging increased demand for organic products as one of the inclusive agriculture properties.