About Biodynamics
Biodynamics is a holistic, ecological, and ethical approach to farming, gardening, food, and nutrition. Biodynamics is rooted in the work of philosopher and scientist Dr. Rudolf Steiner, whose 1924 lectures to farmers opened a new way to integrate scientific understanding with a recognition of spirit in nature.
Biodynamics has continued to develop and evolve since the 1920s through the collaboration of many farmers and researchers. Around the world, biodynamics is alive in thousands of thriving gardens, farms, vineyards, ranches, and orchards. The principles and practices of biodynamics can be applied anywhere food is grown, with thoughtful adaptation to scale, landscape, climate, and culture.
Background
Biodynamics, derived from the Greek bios (life) and dynamos (energy) is the oldest system of organic agriculture. It is a global movement that promotes a uniquely holistic approach to organic agriculture which aims to regenerate the health and vitality of our soils; restore the integrity of our food; ensure the welfare of our animals and promote the health and wholeness of our communities. Biodynamics is uniquely positioned to ensure sustainable agriculture, biodiversity and food security, and tackle some of the root causes of climate change.
The foundation of biodynamics
The father of biodynamics, Rudolf Steiner was born on February 27, 1861 in what is now Croatia and died on March 30, 1925 in Dornach, Switzerland. His monumental projects of drafting a holistic science, a new pedagogy, new perspectives in medicine and agriculture have entered into the spiritual heritage of the present time. They live in today’s cultural life as an impulse and an inspiration. Biodynamic practices build upon a series of Steiner’s lectures for farmers who wanted to improve soil fertility and food quality.
The role of biodynamics in the challenges today
Climate Change is one of the biggest challenges we as a species face today. Food production and consumption accounts for 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Conversely, agriculture is one of the sectors most affected by climate change: threatening rising temperatures, water scarcity and soil degradation. Biodynamics can make a significant contribution to healing the planet. An extremely effective organic system for carbon storage and soil restoration, biodynamic farming has the potential to mitigate the impact of climate change and heal our planet.