A trade deal on organic products between the EU and Chile has provoked a discussion about the carbon footprint of organic products transported over long distances.
The deal, concluded in April but not yet approved by the European Parliament, provides that Chile and the EU will recognise the equivalence of their organic production rules and control systems, meaning that products produced to organic standards in the EU can be freely sold in Chile, and vice versa. Supporters of the deal say it will increase markets for organic food and spread understanding of organic production systems, which in turn contribute to environmental protection. The EU already has administrative arrangements enabling long-distance trade in organics, for example with India and Argentina, but this is the first full treaty -- hailed as the first of a 'new generation'.
But some MEPs are arguing that the long-distance transportation involved, by plane or ship, and the carbon emissions arising, may undermine the benefits gained, and say the EU's efforts would be better directed at increasing EU organic production, to satisfy burgeoning demand. Read the full story on Euractiv here.
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Published Sunday 14 May 2017
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
