Historical development of organic production

Abstract

The authors are discussing the concept of organic production, its origins and development. Organic agriculture has been developed in three stages: stage of emergence (1924-1970), stage of expansion (1970-1990) and stage of growth (after 1990). In the first stage organic production faced problems in terms of its scientific recognition, acceptance by the producer, members of the wider community as well as acceptance at the national level. The second stage was defined with gradual expansion of the production system, the establishment of non-governmental organizations, the recognition and the establishment of the first legislative framework and the adoption of organic practices. In the third stage organic production is recognized and accepted around the world. Today there are laws on organic production in almost all developed countries, and in most of the developing countries. Areas under this system are increasing and the state official are acting as advocates of organic agriculture, supporting this system in the form of various premiums and subsidies for producers.