Ecological Organic Standard for Ghana
DOWNLOAD ARTICLEThis standard is the first version of the Ghanaian standard and regulatory statutes for a Participatory Guarantee System (PGS).
The history, culture and social values of West Africans and thus Ghanaians, are rooted in agriculture. Agriculture is the most important source of livelihood for a very large proportion of the population. The sustainable management of the agriculture production process is therefore crucial if livelihoods are to be sustained in a world with changes in climate and economy.
Organic agriculture is a comprehensive integrated production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems, animals and people. The principles of organic agriculture are summarized in the four principles of health, ecology, fairness and care which inspire the worldwide organic movement.
The four core principles of health, ecology, fairness and care are brought to life in agriculture by working in respect with ecological processes, natural biodiversity, soil bioactivity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than using inputs with adverse effects. Organic agriculture aims to optimize the health and productivity of interdependent communities of soil life, plants, animals and people.
It builds on West Africa’s rich heritage of indigenous knowledge combined with modern science, technologies proven through experimental practices, adapting to increase climate-resilience and robustness in food-security and the livelihood of farmers.
Organic agriculture combines tradition, innovation and science to benefit and improve our shared environment and promote fair relationships and a good quality of life for all involved. The system is often further described by standards, which govern labeling and claims for organic products.
This standard is the first version of the Ghanaian standard and regulatory statutes for a Participatory Guarantee System (PGS). PGS Ghana integrates the traditional ways of farming, together with innovative marketing strategies. By providing farmers, producers and consumer a large range of selling platforms for their produce and products. The Ghanaian Participatory Guarantee System contributes to the country food security and food safety by adding value to the produce from the raw farmer to the big producers nationwide. This system supports the promotion of Ghanaian produce and products and contribute to the agriculture sector in the country.
Click here to download the Ecological Organic Standard for Ghana.