Organic farming is an agricultural system that seeks to produce food in a way that is environmentally sustainable, economically viable and socially responsible. It has gained significant attention as a sustainable alternative production system compared to conventional farming due to its environmental benefits and potential to support farmers livelihood. Organic farming is more than a method of food production; it provides vital ecosystem services that are essential for sustainable agriculture and human well-being. Valuing the ecosystem services provided by organic farming is crucial for understanding and enhancing its contributions to sustainable agriculture and environmental health. A study conducted by Department of Agricultural Economics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore revealed that economic value of ecosystem services was found to be higher in organic fields than conventional fields for food production by Rs. 58,272 per hectare, soil nutrients by Rs.6876.58 / ha. pest control by Rs. 8592/ha, pollination activity by Rs. 4494/ha and soil formation by Rs. 1067.50/ha. Thus, the change in the value of ecosystem services was found positive and higher by Rs.79,303/ha indicating that organic fields had potential to increase the value of ecosystem services compared to conventional fields. Age, livestock, membership, motivation by extension agents were found statistically significant and influenced the farmers participation in organic farming. Adoption of organic farming exerts a positive and significant impact on profitability of the farmers and they realized higher profit than the conventional farmers in the study area.
Economic valuation, Organic farming, Ecosystem services, Market and non-market services, Profitability
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