BIO-DYNAMICS
BIO-DYNAMICS
BIO-DYNAMICS
BIO-DYNAMICS

'Bio-Dynamic’ is the term given to the ecological agriculture that has developed out of a series of lectures delivered by Rudolf Steiner in 1924. This was the birth of the world's first consciously organic movement.

The hallmark of Dr. Steiner's work was his endeavour to show that man and universe are inextricably wedded into a whole, a unity. Steiner gave recognition to the dynamic interplay that characterizes natural systems and indicated methods for intensifying natural processes to enhance the quality of produce and the health of the farm.

The Bio-Dynamic method addresses the development of integrated farming practices that will maintain the fertility of the farm. No synthetic pesticides or fertilizers are used. The farm is understood as an ecosystem, typically supporting a diverse mix of crops and livestock, which are considered complimentary.    

The traditional family farm, the mixed farm, producing seed and fertility along with marketable commodities, maintains the potential of a self generating system.

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Planet Earth is made habitable for our species through the integrated activities of various elemental and cosmic influences, and vast numbers of other species through their ecosystem interactions. Our world is characterized by threshold relationships which, in modern times, have been ignored and threatened throughout all spheres of life on earth.

Bio-dynamic agriculture is an ecological farming system that arose in response to the environmental degradation, and decline in food quality and animal health, which had resulted from the prevalence of the modern chemical / industrial agricultural practices. Bio-Dynamic practice aims to assist nature where nature has been weakened; to restore balance and vitality.

The biodynamic approach is wholistic, encompassing the ecological, ethical, social, and spiritual aspects of farming. The emphasis is on balance. Consequently, the biodynamic approach regards as essential the maintenance and perpetuation of the family farm, the mixed farm: farms that allow for a balanced community.

A production system may be considered sustainable if production can develop out of the ecology of the site as it is in itself. Production that is dependent on the use of artificial or off-farm inputs cannot be considered sustainable. A sustainable land use strategy would seek to establish a balanced production ecosystem evolved on the basis of local conditions.  

The bio-dynamic approach recognizes that the producer may work with the ecosystem to the benefit of the land, its inhabitants and the consumer.

Bibliography.

Koepf, H. Petterson, B. and Schaumann, W. (1976). Biodynamic Agriculture.   NY  :    Anthroposophic Press.

Pfeiffer, E. Bio-Dynamic Gardening and Farming vol. 1-3. NY: Mercury Press. Spring Valley

Sattler, F. & Wistinghausen, E. (1989)  Bio-dynamic Farming Practice. BDAA, Stourbridge, West Midlands .

Steiner, Rudolf (1993). The Spiritual Foundations for the Renewal of Agriculture.   Ed. Malcolm Gardner.  PA: Bio-Dynamic Farming and Gardening Association, Inc.

Storl, W. (1979)  Culture and Horticulture. Wyoming , Rhode Island . Bio-dynamic Literature