Acquisition and transfer of knowledge within the organic sector in Iceland

Organic agriculture is developing at a slower rate in Iceland than in the other Nordic countries, partly due to lack of research and development work. While the supply of organics does not meet demand, and the market is growing, this sector within Icelandic agriculture is largely driven by consumers, ideologists and enthusiasts. They are, for example, trying to solve problems and promote progress by accumulating and disseminating knowledge from various sources. Much more support is needed from the scientific community and politicians should pay closer attention to the contribution organic farming can make to sustainable development and the wellbeing of society at large. Transfer of knowledge from other Nordic countries could, for example, be linked to research on organic fertilizers and methods of teaching and extension