UK organic food gets a boost5 August 2002
Up until now most organic produce sold in the UK has been imported. To change this a new Government plan promises to:
- Set organic targets
70% of organic produce sold in the UK will be grown in this country. - Help organic farmers
Farmers will receive ongoing payments once they have converted to organic methods. - Promote local organic food
Schools and hospitals will be encouraged to use local organic food.
Making the difference
The change is the result of the efforts of thousands of dedicated and enthusiastic people who worked together on the Organic Targets Campaign.
Special thanks goes to Friends of the Earth local groups and campaign co-ordinators - Sustain.
Two events were critical in persuading the Government:
- Aim for Organics action day (Oct 2000)
You took to the streets and collected signed postcards asking your MPs to support the campaign. It was a turning point and got the attention of MPs and the media. - Organic Targets Rally (Feb 2002)
100's of you queued outside Parliament for hours to lobby your MP. It brought the message home that people care about UK organic farming.
Organic future for UK?
We still don't know when the Government will make their promise reality. It is also time for supermarkets to sell the locally-grown organic food people want.
Friends of the Earth says
- Supermarkets must sell more UK-grown organic food and pay farmers a fair price.
- The Government should set a timetable and help organic farmers hit the target swiftly.
Help make sure the Government and supermarkets get home grown organics into our shops soon.
© Friends of the Earth
