ORGANIC FARMING IN THE EUROPEAN UNION IN THE FACE OF THE CHALLENGES OF SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION

Abstract

Abstract The aim of the study is to present the link between organic farming and sustainable consumption in the light of the European Green Deal strategy (EGD). The article discusses whether the increase in the supply of organic food and the solutions proposed in the strategy will contribute to the spread of sustainable consumption. The article was prepared based on a critical analysis of the literature based on available statistical data, strategic documents, and scientific studies. The paper uses desk research and secondary data from Eurostat, FAOStat, and IFOAM for European Union countries (EU) between 2014 and 2020. It has been found that the implementation of the principles of sustainable consumption through organic farming requires action to increase consumers’ confidence in organic food products. The credibility of organic farming must be built at every stage of the supply chain. From the perspective of achieving the principles of sustainable consumption and production through the development of organic farming, it is important to ensure a reliable certification system at every stage of the supply chain and labeling that takes into account detailed information about the product. Public procurement, which could generate sustainable demand for organic food products, is the development opportunity for organic farming. The analysis showed that the actions and tools identified in the European Green Deal strategy, within the framework of the three main priorities, appear to be legitimate and crucial for the development of organic agriculture and market for organic food products.