Organic agriculture has garnered global attention as a sustainable alternative to conventional farming, driven by concerns over environmental sustainability, human health, and long-term food security. Sri Lanka, an island nation with a rich agricultural heritage, has seen a significant shift towards organic farming over the past few decades.  

History of Organic Agriculture in Sri Lanka 

Sri Lanka’s history with organic farming dates to ancient times when traditional agricultural practices were inherently organic. The use of natural fertilizers, crop rotation, and integrated pest management were common practices among farmers. However, the advent of the Green Revolution in the mid-20th century, with its emphasis on chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and high-yielding varieties, led to a significant decline in these traditional methods. 

The negative environmental and health impacts of chemical-intensive farming became increasingly evident by the late 20th century. Soil degradation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity prompted a re-evaluation of farming practices in the country. The 1990s marked the beginning of a renewed interest in organic agriculture, driven by both governmental and non-governmental organizations. 

The establishment of the Lanka Organic Agriculture Movement (LOAM) in 1994 was a pivotal moment in the resurgence of organic farming in Sri Lanka. LOAM played a crucial role in promoting organic farming practices, providing training to farmers, and advocating for policies supporting organic agriculture. This period also saw the emergence of small-scale organic farms and the introduction of organic products to local and international markets. 

Agroecological Organic Agriculture: A Path to Sustainability 

At the core of organic farming in Sri Lanka lies the concept of agroecology, an approach that integrates ecological principles into farming systems. Agroecology emphasizes the importance of working with nature rather than against it. It promotes biodiversity, soil health, and ecological balance while minimizing the use of synthetic inputs like chemical fertilizers and pesticides. 

Agroecological practices are essential in organic farming because they create resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding environmental challenges such as droughts, floods, and pest infestations. In Sri Lanka, where agriculture is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, agroecology offers a sustainable alternative that helps protect natural resources while enhancing farm productivity. 

Key agroecological practices in organic farming include crop rotation, intercropping, composting, and the use of natural pest control methods. These practices help maintain soil fertility, reduce erosion, and increase biodiversity, creating more resilient farming ecosystems. By nurturing the natural relationships between soil, plants, and insects, agroecological organic farming reduces the need for harmful chemical inputs, leading to healthier crops and healthier ecosystems. 

Current State of Organic Agriculture in Sri Lanka 

Today, organic agriculture in Sri Lanka is a growing sector, with increasing recognition both domestically and internationally. The country is renowned for its organic tea, spices, and coconut products, which are exported to markets around the world. The organic farming sector is characterized by small to medium-sized farms, often organized into cooperatives that facilitate marketing and certification processes. 

The Sri Lankan government has shown strong support for organic agriculture, particularly in recent years. In 2021, the government made headlines by announcing a nationwide shift towards organic farming, aiming to become the world’s first fully organic farming nation. This ambitious policy aimed to eliminate the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, promoting organic farming practices across all agricultural sectors. 

Paddy cultivation in Sri Lanka © Renaissance Sri Lanka 

The decision, however, faced significant challenges. The sudden ban on chemical fertilizers led to a decline in crop yields, particularly in staple crops like rice. This resulted in food shortages and economic hardships for farmers. The policy was met with widespread criticism, and by the end of 2021, the government was forced to reconsider its approach, allowing limited use of chemical fertilizers while continuing to promote organic practices. 

Food shortages and economic hardships have led women to increase vegetables grown in their own homes © Renaissance Sri Lanka 

Despite these setbacks, the organic agriculture sector in Sri Lanka continues to grow. The demand for organic products, both domestically and internationally, is on the rise. Sri Lankan consumers are increasingly aware of the health and environmental benefits of organic foods, leading to greater demand for these products in local markets. 

Sri Lankan consumers are increasingly conscious of the benefits of organic products when preparing balanced lunches © Renaissance Sri Lanka 

Furthermore, the international market for organic products presents significant opportunities for Sri Lankan farmers. The global organic food market is projected to continue growing, driven by consumer demand for healthy and environmentally sustainable products. Sri Lanka’s reputation for high-quality organic products positions the country well to capitalize on this trend. 

Challenges Facing Organic Agriculture in Sri Lanka 

While the growth of organic agriculture in Sri Lanka is promising, the sector faces several challenges. One of the primary challenges is the need for proper infrastructure and support systems for organic farmers. This includes access to organic seeds, natural fertilizers, and pest control methods. Additionally, the certification process for organic products can be costly and time-consuming, particularly for small-scale farmers. 

Another significant challenge is the need for education and training. Transitioning from conventional to organic farming requires a different set of skills and knowledge. Farmers need to be trained in organic farming techniques, soil management, and pest control. The lack of adequate training programs and extension services hinders the widespread adoption of organic farming practices. 

The economic viability of organic farming is another concern. While organic products can command higher prices in the market, the initial transition to organic farming can result in lower yields and higher production costs. This can be a significant barrier for small-scale farmers who may not have the financial resources to absorb these costs. 

Moreover, the policy environment for organic farming in Sri Lanka has been inconsistent. The abrupt policy shifts, such as the 2021 ban on chemical fertilizers, have created uncertainty among farmers. A stable and supportive policy environment is crucial for the long-term growth of the organic agriculture sector. 

The future Prospects of Organic Agriculture in Sri Lanka 

Despite the challenges, the future of organic agriculture in Sri Lanka holds significant promise. The global trend towards sustainable and organic farming is likely to continue, providing opportunities for Sri Lankan farmers to expand their presence in international markets.  

 

Sri Lankan spices with rich nutrients © Renaissance Sri Lanka 

The country’s diverse climate and rich biodiversity offer favorable conditions for a wide range of organic crops, including tea, spices, fruits, and vegetables. 

To realize this potential, several key steps are necessary.  

  • Firstly, the government needs to provide consistent and supportive policies for organic agriculture. This includes subsidies for organic inputs, support for certification processes, and investment in research and development for organic farming techniques. 
  • Secondly, there is a need for greater investment in education and training programs. Farmers should have access to training in organic farming practices and information on market trends and consumer preferences. Extension services should be strengthened to provide ongoing support to farmers as they transition to organic farming. 
  • Thirdly, developing strong supply chains and marketing networks is crucial for the growth of organic agriculture in Sri Lanka. This includes improving access to domestic and international markets, as well as developing branding and certification systems that can enhance the reputation of Sri Lankan organic products. 
  • Finally, promoting awareness and demand for organic products among Sri Lankan consumers is essential. Public awareness campaigns can educate consumers on the benefits of organic foods, helping to drive demand in local markets. 

How Renaissance Sri Lanka’s Contribution to Sustainable Agroecological Organic Agriculture? 

Renaissance Sri Lanka is an organization deeply committed to addressing the socio-economic and environmental challenges of rural communities in Sri Lanka. With the increasing global emphasis on sustainability and the pressing need to mitigate climate change, Renaissance Sri Lanka is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable agroecological organic agriculture. Through its initiatives, Renaissance Sri Lanka can help rural communities transition to environmentally friendly farming methods, ensuring long-term ecological balance, food security, and economic empowerment.  

One of the primary ways Renaissance Sri Lanka can contribute to sustainable agroecological organic agriculture is by educating and training farmers (Read More). Transitioning from conventional farming, which relies heavily on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, to organic methods requires a significant change in knowledge and practices. Agroecology, which emphasizes the integration of ecological principles into farming, is knowledge-intensive and relies on techniques like crop rotation, composting, natural pest control, and maintaining biodiversity. 

Renaissance Sri Lanka can organize workshops, training sessions, and field demonstrations for farmers, educating them about the benefits of agroecological practices (Read More). These sessions can cover important topics such as soil health management, water conservation, the use of organic inputs, and crop diversification. By fostering a community-based learning approach, where farmers share experiences and knowledge, we can empower farmers to adopt sustainable practices that improve soil fertility, enhance biodiversity, and increase resilience to climate change. 

Renaissance Sri Lanka has already shown success in empowering communities by establishing cooperatives, as seen in its recent project in Badulla (Read More). Cooperatives can be a powerful tool for promoting sustainable agroecological organic agriculture, as they enable farmers to pool resources, share knowledge, and collectively market their organic products. 

Through cooperatives, Renaissance Sri Lanka can assist farmers in securing organic certification, which can be an expensive and bureaucratic process for individual farmers. Certification opens access to local and international markets for organic produce, which often commands higher prices than conventional products. This not only provides financial stability for farmers but also encourages others to shift to organic farming due to the economic benefits. 

Moreover, cooperatives can facilitate the sharing of farming equipment and organic inputs, such as composting facilities or seed banks. By reducing costs and risks for individual farmers, cooperatives play a critical role in making agroecological organic farming viable and sustainable. 

Conclusion 

The growth and development of organic agriculture in Sri Lanka reflect a broader global movement towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices. While the sector faces significant challenges, including policy inconsistency, lack of infrastructure, and the need for farmer education, the potential for growth is substantial. With the right support, organic agriculture in Sri Lanka can contribute to the country’s economic development, environmental sustainability, and food security, positioning Sri Lanka as a leader in the global organic farming movement. 

References 

  • Fernando, D., & Weerakkody, W. (2019). « Organic Agriculture in Sri Lanka: Current Status and Future Prospects. » Journal of Sustainable Agriculture and Environment, 15(2), 134-145. 
  • Herath, H. M. P. N. B. (2021). « Challenges and Opportunities in Organic Agriculture: The Sri Lankan Perspective. » Agriculture and Food Security, 10(1), 23-35. 
  • Lanka Organic Agriculture Movement (LOAM). (2020). The Growth of Organic Farming in Sri Lanka: A Historical Perspective. Colombo: LOAM Publications. 
  • World Bank. (2022). « Sri Lanka’s Organic Agriculture Transition: Lessons Learned and Future Directions. » World Bank Report. Washington, DC: World Bank.