Abstract Detail

Ecology

Olowoyo, Joshua [1], Mugivhisa, Liziwe [2].

How safe is organic farming in the face of persistent organic and inorganic pollutants in the environment.

Organic farming products are fast gaining acceptance from consumers all over the world due to the perceived belief that they are safe for human consumption. However in recent years, there has been an increase in the levels of persistent organic and inorganic pollutants in the environment. These pollutants are found in farming materials such as sewage sludge, treated wastewater, farmyard manure (human and animal feaces and urine) that are used for organic farming. The present review examined through literature the presence of these emerging pollutants in crops that are cultivated from farming activities practicing organic farming. The review highlighted and documented various pollutants that may be found in crops due to non-compliance with legislation establishing organic farming. The need to develop a robust method for identifying safe products from organic farming was highlighted. The impact of non-compliance and lack of proper education on the peasant farmers practicing backyard farming was also enumerated.

1 - Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa, P.O. BOX 139, Medunsa, South Africa, Gauteng, 0204, South Africa
2 - Sefako Magatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa, Biology, P.O. Box 139, Medunsa, Pretoria, Gauteng, 0204, South Africa

Keywords:
organic farming
Pollutants
Farmers
Human Health.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 2, Ecology Section - Functional Traits and Responses
Location: 104/Mayo Civic Center
Date: Monday, July 23rd, 2018
Time: 11:30 AM
Number: 2014
Abstract ID:99
Candidate for Awards:None