Practice Abstract - Research and innovation

Conversion to organic navigation guide for Austrian farmers

Austria

Problem  

Once a farmer decides to convert to organic, the needed steps and paperwork may seem complex.  

Solution  

In Austria, various institutions offer advisory services as well as a broad range of courses and trainings for farmers in conversion to organic. This practice abstract sets out steps to take and to give an overview of actors that can provide assistance.

Benefits  

This practice abstract lists current trusted providers of organic advisory services for farmers who want to convert to organic production in Austria as well as all important actors involved in the process. 

Practical recommendations  

The legal basis of organic standards is the EU regulation 2018/484.  

  • Pre conversion information: Regional agricultural chambers and the organic farmers association Bio Austria offer Individual farm consultancy and organic farm visit opportunities.
  • Sign certification contract: Certification bodies are private service providers accredited to conduct organic certifications. To start the transitioning process farmers can choose one of the following certification bodies: ABG, BIOS, LACON, SGS, SLK, LKV. The certification body will once a year conduct an on-farm inspection visit to assure that the organic standards are followed. A conversion time of 24 months (or 36 months for permanent crops) must pass until the farm products can be labelled as certified organic.
  • Allowed inputs: Organic farm management means that operating resources are restricted according to Regulation (EU) 2018/484. Permitted inputs such as fertilisers, pesticides, or feed stuff with approval for organic farming are listed in the Austrian catalogue of permitted inputs.
  • Seed and planting material: Only organic seeds and planting material are allowed in organic farming. A list of available organic seed lots for Austria can be found in the Austrian Organic Seed Database.
  • Advanced training: LFI, Bio Austria, FIBL, Demeter provide advanced trainings.  

Additional information

Further reading 

Weblinks 

Websites with information about organic farming principles and standards:

Source Project
OrganicTargets4EU
Completed | 2022-2026
Main funding source
Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
Geographical location
Denmark, Austria, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Romania
Project details

Project Keywords

Links