Integrating organic farming into the common agricultural policy: challenges and implications for the Republic of Moldova

Abstract

Agriculture represents an essential sector of the economy, contributing to income generation, food security, and job creation for a considerable portion of the population. Against the backdrop of climate change and rising global temperatures, the growing pressures of climate change have brought the long-term viability of agricultural systems into sharper focus, highlighting the urgent need for production approaches that safeguard the environment and preserve natural resources. In this context, organic farming stands out as a key pillar of sustainable agriculture, supporting the prudent management of natural assets and the preservation of ecological balance, in line with the principles set out in Regulation (EU) 2018/848 on organic production and the labelling of organic products [10]. Through the reduction of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and applying agricultural practices based on natural processes, organic farming contributes to the conservation of soil fertility, biodiversity protection, and the reduction of negative environmental impacts. Simultaneously, this farming approach contributes to the provision of safe, high-quality food for consumers. At the level of the European Union, the advancement of sustainable and organic agriculture is considered a strategic priority. Through the Common Agricultural Policy, a range of support mechanisms is implemented to encourage farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices and to increase the area under organic cultivation. These actions are consistent with the goals set out in the European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy, which aim to reshape European food systems into more sustainable and resilient models [5]. Within this framework, organic agriculture is viewed as a production model grounded in the three pillars of sustainable development - economic, social, and environmental - thereby supporting the achievement of European Union objectives related to environmental protection, the conservation of natural resources, and the mitigation of climate change.