Organics 'a Natural Fit' For Fieldays

26 May 2009

Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) is returning to Fieldays at Mystery Creek this year to support the theme of 'My Land, Our Environment'.

Dr Jon Tanner, OANZ Chief Executive Officer, says the presentation - which incorporates organic certifiers and other groups - will outline the organic advantage in six key environmental areas.

"Our presentation at Fieldays will focus strongly on the benefits of organics to water quality, biodiversity, soil quality, energy use, climate change and health", Dr Tanner said.

"OANZ is participating in the Premier Feature, at site M28.  This will be the third year that OANZ has presented at Fieldays, after winning the Best Site award in the Premier Feature in 2007.

"2009's Fieldays theme reinforces the need to consider the effects of farming on New Zealand's wider environment.  The theme acknowledges that international markets are just as concerned about farming's environmental impact as our leading farmers and local government.

"Certified organics is universally recognised as being at the leading edge of environmental sustainability.  Underpinned by international standards, certified organic farmers are rewarded with premium prices in domestic and overseas markets.

"This makes organics an obvious example of the high-value products which support and enhance New Zealand's 'clean, green' image.

"Organic products are good for people, planet and profits - a natural fit.

"We look forward to welcoming people to our presentation at site M28 - directly outside the main Fieldays pavilion", Dr Tanner said.

Dr Tanner is also presenting on organic production as part of the University of Waikato Seminar Series, at 11:30am on Friday 12 July.