Organic farming, devoid of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, is central to the KRAV label's approach. According to Emma Rung, CEO of KRAV, "All residents of Örebro County who purchase KRAV-labeled products contribute to promoting biodiversity and reducing climate impact while allowing animals to live their natural lives."
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, KRAV has released a report detailing organic production's societal impact since its inception. It highlights that a consumer choosing organic potatoes since 1985 has prevented the use of nearly 100 liters of pesticides. For Örebro County, this translates to a reduction of 870,000 liters, contributing to a national total of almost 30 million liters saved.
Furthermore, opting for organic potatoes has reduced emissions significantly. For Örebro County, this choice equates to a reduction of 860 tons of carbon dioxide, akin to the emissions from a flight to Thailand. Nationally, the reduction is 30,000 tons, comparable to the annual emissions from approximately 20,000 cars.
Emma Rung emphasizes, "The potato here is an example of how important small choices in everyday life are. But there are even greater effects when you choose organic meat and dairy products. Compared to potatoes, calculated per kilo, it takes a full 35 times more artificial fertilizer to produce conventional beef."
KRAV's standards extend beyond organic production, enforcing stringent requirements for biodiversity, animal welfare, and working conditions. Producers must utilize renewable electricity and cultivation methods that mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
Emma Rung concludes, "When we sum up these 40 years, we see what a difference it is possible to make, but we also see how much remains. The climate crisis and the threat to biodiversity are becoming increasingly tangible, and it is up to us, together, to contribute to something better."
Source: Argenpapa
