Organic farming – which includes organic winemaking – is better for biodiversity and the environment.

As we witness a proliferation of endangered species and dwindling forests, it’s becoming increasingly clear that industries must pivot to models that allow our natural world to thrive. One such industry that has come under scrutiny is the agricultural industry. Farms, which produce the food we eat and the wine we drink, can have a devastating effect on the surrounding landscape –they wipe out plant life, displace animals, and erode and taint the soil.

One reason for this destruction is the reliance on chemicals. Herbicides are used to banish weeds, and pesticides are used to get rid of insects and rodents; as a result, these chemicals end up in the soil and water supply. The impacts can have surprising and long-lasting effects on the plant, animal, and human lives in the region. 

Fortunately, organic farming is on the rise. As this shift continues, we’re seeing the positive effects that come with it. 

What is organic farming?

Those unfamiliar with farming might wonder how organic farming compares to non-organic farming; after all, an organic farm and a non-organic farm look quite similar on the surface. The main difference is that organic farms do not use traditional chemicals. This means no synthetic herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers. There is also a focus on crop rotation, prevention of erosion, fertilization with natural substances, such as manure, and mixed crop production. 

Organic farming protects wild plants

Thanks to the absence of dangerous herbicides, native plants can flourish on and around an organic farm. According to a study from the University of Swansea, organic farming results in increased biodiversity in plant life. Plants often overlooked as just weeds can provide nutrition for animals and insects. 

Organic farming provides a habitat for wildlife

In addition to using native plants as a food source, animals also use plants as a habitat. Non-organic farms that banish so-called weeds also banish the generations of birds, insects, and other creatures that rely on growth areas for a safe home. On an organic farm, animals are safe and protected. 

Organic farming keeps pests under control

One might assume that the lack of insecticides encourages the presence of pests. However, the opposite is often true. One of the most beautiful benefits of organic farming is that it allows birds to flourish. These avian creatures return the favor by keeping pests under control. 

Organic farming prevents soil erosion

In a 2014 study about soil erosion and organic farming, it was revealed that organic farming can limit soil erosion due to the presence of plant life. This is key in maintaining a healthy farm and in protecting the environment around it. The study evaluated several different types of farms to determine the impact that organic farming had on soil erosion and concluded that it was especially effective in reducing soil erosion for row crops due to the pattern of weed development. 

Organic farming is especially beneficial to certain species

One interesting tidbit about organic farming and the species it positively impacts was revealed in a study by the Journal of Applied Ecology. This study looked at which living organisms were able to thrive in an organic farm environment. The study revealed that birds did especially well in areas where organic farming was present. This is a positive sign for nature lovers, as birds are often seen as a species that determines the health and biodiversity of an environment as a whole. 

Domaine Bousquet’s commitment to organic winemaking

Domaine Bousquet whole-heartedly believes in advancing organic farming. As an organic winery located in beautiful Mendoza, Argentina, our focus is on thoughtfully crafting organic, fair-trade, vegan, sustainable wine. We do this by maintaining an organic winery where our grapes are grown and nourished. Since we don’t use pesticides or other harmful chemicals, our soil maintains its most natural state with a high level of microbial activity which translates to hearty, healthy vines that produce superior grapes. We believe in running a winery that is good for the environment around it. As such, the native plants and animals around us thrive. 

We invite you to browse our selection of clean, delicious wines. You will taste the organic difference, and feel good about what’s in your glass.