Organic farming practices are not based simply on lists of acceptable or unacceptable materials. Rather, organic farming strives to practice agriculture in a manner that achieves a balance similar to that found in natural systems. This includes a commitment to building or maintaining soil health practices through practices such as green manures, crop rotations and compost application . The product of a carefully managed aerobic process by which organic materials are digested by microorganisms. This organic material must be managed to reach temperatures for the duration necessary to effectively stabilize nutrients and kill human pathogens.
Compost fosters the biological processes in the soil.
Its use is a major tool in the creation and preservation of soil fertility. Nutrients that leave farm soils must be replaced if crop production is to remain abundant. Organic wastes, many of which are rich in nutrients and organic matter, can be used to replenish soils. But the common practice in conventional agriculture is to rely primarily on manufactured fertilizer. . . . The acceptance of the ancient appreciation of organic material will be an important step toward building sustainable cities and farms.