Biodynamic® stands for a holistic method of agriculture. According to the Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association, Biodynamic agriculture is based on individuals considering every aspect of the food system, "From how land is owned to how farms are capitalized to how food is produced, distributed and prepared." Additionally, Biodynamic agriculture recognizes that the entire planet is a "Single, self-regulating, multi-dimensional ecosystem."
So, by philosophy, Biodynamic farmers attempt to create a farm and farming system that is as self-regulating as possible and that supports biodiversity so that land and local communities remain healthy and vital.
Based on inspiration drawn from the spiritual-scientific insights of Rudolf Steiner, the Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association was founded in 1938 and there are strict rules regarding this method of agriculture. Food products labeled "biodynamic" must be certified by an independent third party according to standards set by the Demeter® Biodynamic Farm Standard.
In order to attain Demeter Biodynamic certification, the following requirements are set:
- Farming methods must be free of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
- Farms must meet the same 3-year transition requirement that NOP certified organic farming requires.
- Farms must evolve towards its maximum potential.
- A farm must be regenerative rather than degenerative.
Other aspects farms must meet in order to gain certification include issues surrounding soil fertility management, crop protection, greenhouse management and the use of specific holistic-minded preparations. Biodiversity is a key emphases of this certification and animal care and welfare are also given extensive consideration.
