Profile

FiBL in brief

The Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) was optimize husbandry, feeding and pasture regimes and test founded in 1973 and has been based in Frick since 1997. It is homeopathic remedies and plant preparations. The socio- one of the world’s leading research centres for organic farm- economics division analyses business problems at organic ing. FiBL operates a vineyard which produces its own wine, farms, pricing of organic goods and cost recovery levels, ag- a fruit-growing area, a farm with farm shop and a restaurant, ricultural support measures and marketing issues. FiBL is a all of which are run on organic lines. FiBL employs 125 staff. sought-after partner in European Union research projects. It works closely with those involved with practical applica- In conjunction with its research FiBL operates an advisory tions of organic agriculture. Research and advisory projects service, so that results can quickly have an impact on practice. are being carried out on more than 200 organic farms all over Alongside the provision of advice to individual farms and to Switzerland. groups, the most important advisory channels are courses, Fruit, wine, vegetables and potatoes are the main subjects of the monthly journal “bioaktuell”, the website www.bioaktuell. crop research at FiBL. Trials are conducted on resisting pests ch and FiBL’s data sheets. The international cooperation divi- and diseases by promoting beneficial organisms, applying di- sion organizes tailor-made projects for market development, rect control measures, and improving cropping techniques. certification and applied research in developing countries. One division of the institute is dedicated to the quality of or- FiBL set up the independent institutes FiBL Germany (2001) ganic products and the processing involved. Another key em- and FiBL Austria (2004). It also co-founded the Bioinstitut phasis is on measures to increase soil fertility. Veterinarians in the Czech Republic (2004) and the Institut fir biologesch are engaged in research into udder health and parasites; they Landwirtschaft an Agrarkultur Luxemburg (IBLA, 2007).

Contact: [email protected]

46 Activity report | 2008 Finances of FiBL Switzerland

Income and expenditure 2007 und 2006 (in Swiss francs) 2007 2006 Income Research projects 5 226 304.65 5 258 499.26 Service mandate for Swiss federal agencies 4 800 000.00 5 000 000.00 Advisory service and training 1 033 481.62 1 300 412.20 Communication (periodicals, data sheets, Internet) 870 911.96 878 108.47 International cooperation 3 275 258.89 2 737 819.26 Pilot farm 56 193.70 57 043.62 Catering, housekeeping 450 466.45 424 038.85 Donations, miscellaneous income 427 084.97 413 427.06 Total income 16 139 702.24 16 069 348.72 Expenditure Personnel expenses 9 857 708.95 9 689 311.45 Material expenses Experimental/trial material, laboratory, analytics, projects 4 375 045.14 3 970 014.47 Premises, office supplies, other administrative, information technology, advertising 1 193 678.36 1 205 856.68 Financial result 196 407.28 122 815.49 Depreciation 650 279.30 1 238 156.95 Total expenditure 16 273 119.03 16 226 155.04 Non-recurring income/expenditure 136 409.99 200 979.61 Net profit for the year 2 993.20 44 173.29

Development in FiBL Switzerland’s finances in 2006 mony to this, and it has made FiBL’s work more attractive. An and 2007 excellent model is the Coop sustainability fund, which makes In 2006 and 2007 FiBL carried out research, advisory, infor- considerable sums available to FiBL for the development of mation and development projects to the value of 16 million organic agriculture and species-appropriate animal manage- Swiss francs per year. As a non-profit-making foundation we ment. Research is also funded by other companies such as are committed to high ethical standards. We seek to live up to Migros and the manufacturers of natural remedies HISCIA these standards, without being swayed by possible economic, and Weleda. political or social advantages. Through its many international contacts, FiBL in involved in Our work focuses on innovation in sustainable agriculture, a large number of development cooperation projects (SECO, species-appropriate livestock management and healthy nutri- DEZA), and EU research, too, now provides FiBL with im- tion. Our success in this work is due to the support of many portant research mandates. In the period covered by this re- donors, as the impressive list on pages 48/49 shows. port we were involved in 17 EU projects. In 2006 the Swiss Federal Veterinary Office announced that You, dear donors and patrons, have kept faith with FiBL, it was withdrawing its annual grant for research into health some for as much as 35 years. We respond to the trust you prevention for farm animals. This affects important research place in us with a commitment: we endeavour to use your in the areas of antibiotic-free milk production and the natu- donations as efficiently as possible and in the ways that you ral control of gastrointestinal parasites in cattle, sheep, pigs would wish. We are most grateful for each and every dona- and poultry. In 2007 FiBL was short of 200,000 francs for this tion which helps to further the cause of organic agriculture, work; in 2008 the deficit will be 500,000 francs. In view of the the environment and respect for life. significance of these issues for ecology and healthy nutrition, Martin Ott und Urs Niggli the decision of the Veterinary Office is hard to understand. By contrast, cooperation with the Swiss Federal Office for Ag- riculture (BLW) remains unflagging. It is encouraging to note that “ethical buying” is growing in importance. The many brands on the shop shelves bear testi-

Activity report | 2008 47 Clients and donors of FiBL Switzerland

Clients and donors of FiBL Switzerland 2006–2007 Laguna Blanca S.A., AR-La Paz Weleda AG, Arlesheim Federal office for Agriculture (FOAG), Berne Lehmann, Biomühle, Birmenstorf/ Wolf-Garten Einkauf AG, Gossau Oensingen Coop Sustainability Fund, Mäder Kräuter, Boppelsen Yu-Shi, TW-Taipei State Secretariat for Education and research (SER), Berne Massalin Particulares, AR-Salta Zimmermann Verfahrenstechnik State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (seco), Berne MAVA Stiftung, Basel AG, Münchenstein Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Berne Médiplant, Conthey ZMP, DE-Bonn European Commission, Brussels MRW Direction générale de Zukunftsstiftung Landwirtschaft, Federal Veterinary Office (FVO), Berne l‘Agriculture, BE-Namur DE-Bochum Bio Suisse, Basel National Bureau of Agricultural Zürcher Kantonalbank, Zürich Société des coopératives Migros, Commodity, TH-Bangkok Zürcher Tierschutz, Zürich Gerling Foundation, Tegna Nürnberg Messe, DE-Nürnberg Zürcher and Schaffhauser Geschäftsstelle Bundesprogramm ökologischer Landbau in der Oleificio SABO, Manno Biobauern Bundesanstalt für Landwirtschaft und Ernährung (BLE), DE-Bonn Pioneer Hi-Bred Northern Europe, Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), Berne DE-Buxtehude Supporters and patrons Society for Cancer Research (Hiscia), Arlesheim ProSpecieRara, Aarau H. Abplanalp, Gümmenen Kantone (Swiss cantonal authorities): , Appenzell Ausserrhoden, Provins, Sion Roman Abt-Stänz, Bünzen Appenzell Innerrhoden, , Basel-Landschaft, Basel-Stadt, Freiburg, Ricoter AG, Glarus, Graubünden, Luzern, Nidwalden, Obwalden, St.Gallen, Schaff- Peter Achermann, Basel S hausen, Solothurn, Schwyz, , Uri, Waadt, Wallis, Zug, Zürich ampo, Initiative zur Förderung Alfred Ackeret-Schwengeler, anthroposophischer Forschung and Zürich Kunst, Dornach A E Peter Affolter, Amriswil- dministration des Services awag, Dübendorf Sandoz, AT-Kandl techniques de l‘agriculture ASTA, Hefenhofen Engelhard Cooperation, NJ-Iselin Schillerstiftung, Lachen LU-Luxembourg Erlenmeyer-Stiftung, Basel Monique and Guido Ammann- Agro.bio AG, Zürich Schweizerische Vogelwarte, Barras, Niederlenz Ernst Rickertsen GmbH, Sempach Agroscope ART, Reckenholz DE-Glinde Verena Andres, Bolligen Schweizerischer Nationalfonds Peter and Pia Angehrn, Böckten Agroscope ACW, Wädenswil ETH, Zürich (SNF), Bern R. and U. Arni-Henrich, Bubikon Agroscope ALP, Posieux Evidenzgesellschaft, Arlesheim Schweizer Tierschutz (STS), Basel Amt für Lebensmittelkontrolle, Fankhauser Peter, Ettingen Gertrud and Philipp Bachmann, Scottish Agricultural College Wetzikon fenaco, Winterthur (SAC), UK-Edinburgh Hans Georg Bachofner, Amt für Umwelt and Landwirt- Feneberg Lebensmittel GmbH, DE- Sevina AG, St. Gallen schaft, Naturschutzinspektorat, Kempten Stefan Bähler, Olten Bern Software AG-Stiftung, FiBL, DE-Frankfurt DE-Darmstadt Irene Balmer, Moosseedorf Andermatt Biocontrol AG, Wilfried Bär, Adliswil Grossdietwil FiBL Österreich, Wien Soil Association, UK-Bristol Fondation Assistence, FL-Vaduz Sophie and Karl Binding Stiftung, B. and U. Basler-Niggli, Animalco AG, Geflügelzucht, Staufen Fondation Sur-la-Croix, Basel Basel Stiftung für Solidarität im Hans-Rudolf Baumann, applied genetics network, Davos Fonds Landschaft Schweiz (FLS), Oberengstringen Bern Tourismus SST, Basel Arbeitsgemeinschaft Schweizer Richard Baumann, Weiningen Food and Agriculture Organization Stiftung “Soliva”, Chur Rinderzüchter (ASR), Bern Barbara Baumgartner, Lachen /AR Arbovitis, Frick of the United Nations (FAO), Stiftung Sonnenwiese, FL-Vaduz IT-Rom Ricco Bergamin, Liebefeld ASI, Luzern and DE-Offenbach Stiftung Temperatio, Kilchberg Fürstentum Liechtenstein Heinrich and Bertha Beringer, AUE (Amt für Umwelt and Stiftung Wirtschaft and Ökologie G Kirchberg Energie), Basel-Stadt ebana Brasil, BR-Capanema- SWO, Dübendorf paranà Elisabeth Bernath-Huber, Bern BASE TECH, DE-Kassel Stiftung zur Pflege von Mensch, Hauert & Co., HBG- Mitwelt and Erde, Münsingen Anton Bertschi, Seon Basler & Hofmann AG, Zürich Düngerbetrieb, Grossaffoltern SwissFood Tech Management AG, Eduard Bielser-Auer, Muttenz Baudirektion Kanton Fribourg, Hauser Stiftung, Zürich Baar Paul Blaser, Zürich Abt. Natur- & Umwelt Hochschule Wädenswil, Swisssem Saatgut Produzenten- Alice H. Bloesch, Aarau Beratungs- and Gesandheitsdienst Berufsbildungszentrum Verband, Deley für Kleinwiederkäuer (BGK), H.R. and E. Bosshard-Hinderer, t Herzogenbuchsee Hosberg AG Bio-Eierhandel, Rüti egut, DE-Fulda Oetwil am See BfEL, DE-Karlsruhe Hostettler, Alpbad, Tierzuchtfonds, DE-Bochum C. and R. Braun-Fahrländer, Basel I Bio Austria, Linz FOAM, DE-Bonn Trifolio-M GmbH, DE-Lahnau A. and L. Brodowski, U bio.inspecta, Frick Imhof Hansjürg, Schwerzenbach nipoint AG, Ossingen Claude and Christine Brügger, Riehen Bioland Beratung GmbH, DE- INRA, FR-Paris Universität Basel, Basel Mainz Intercooperation, Bern Universitat de Barcelona, ES- Daniel Brunner, Zug Biovision, Zürich International Society for Barcelona Gottfried and Ruth Bucher- Buholzer, Ueberstorf Bristol-Stiftung, FL-Schaan Horticultural Science (ISHS), Universität Hohenheim, DE- BE-Leuven Stuttgart Felix Buser, Reinach Bandesamt für Berufsbildung and Technologie (BBT), Bern International Trade Centre Universität, Kassel, DE- Mary Caroni, Minusio UNCTAD/WTO, Genf Witzenhausen CFPPA, FR-Montmorot Giovanni Cavenaghi, Kilchberg ZH Kantonale Strafanstalt, Universität, Neuenburg Degussa AG, DE-Frankfurt Maria Christen, Hofstetten Karl and Veronica Carstens- Verein für biologisch-dynamische Delinat AG, Horn Ulrich Christen and Söhne, Bio- Stiftung, DE-Essen Landwirtschaft, Arlesheim Gemüse, Büchslen Demeter Bayern, DE-Kranzberg KIKOM, Bern Vetsuisse Fakultät (Uni ZH and BE) Fritz Dähler, Kirchdorf Departament d‘Agricultura, Koordinationsstelle Biotopverband Vier Pfoten, Stiftung für ES-Barcelona Rosmarie De Ambrosis, Asp Grosses Moos, Bern Tierschutz, Zürich H. and W. De Luigi, Iffwil Dutch BD-Vereniging, KWS Suisse AG, Basel Vlaamse Gemeenschap, NL-Driebergen Laure de Watteville, Epalinges Labor Veritas, Zürich Agentschap voor Landbouw en Visserij, BE-Brussels Jean Des Arts, Chène-Bougeries

48 Activity report | 2008 Clients and donors of FiBL Switzerland

Ella Descombes-Lutz, St-Sulpice Matthias Hürlimann, Zürich Christoph Müller, Witterswil Jürg and Beatrice Stampfli-Glocker, Elisabeth Dietrich, Berlingen Lotti and Alex Jacob-Kromer, Doris and Willy Müller, Bettlach Ruedi Donat, Wohlen Reinach Adolf Müller-Buser, Titus Stauble, Frick Hedy Düblin, Oberwil Stephan Jäggli, Basel Andreas Münger, Lugnorre Werner Stauffer, Orpand Niklaus Egli, Hinwil Michael Jakob, Uerschhausen Urs Niggli, Wolfwil Madeleine Stenz, Reinach Rolf Emmenegger, Renat Jordi-Schmutz, Kirchdorf Thomas Notter, Birmensdorf Markus and Lotti Stokar- Elsie Eswein, Immensee Therese Jost, Köniz Helmut Nowack, Wettingen Hildbrand, Oberwil Agnes Felber-Schneider, Bennwil Klaus Junker, Bern Otto Nussbaumer-Gehrig, Zug Martha Stoll, Basel Peter Feller, Oberentfelden Gertrud Kaderli-Gigli, Amriswil Alex and Lore Oberholzer-Lässer, Regula Straub, Binningen Eberhard and Barbara Fischer- Ferdi Kaiser-Rohr, Wittnau Solothurn Niklaus Streit, Oberwangen Reinhart, Zürich MarieAnn and Peter Kamm-Küng, Willi Ott, Ebmatingen Barbara Stürm, Rodersdorf Markus Flück, Wasen i. E. Uznach Hans-Jürg Peter, Walter Sturzenegger, Uster Jörg Flückiger, Grossaffoltern Margrith and Josef Kaufmann- Robert Pfammatter, Riehen U. and E. Stutz-Hunziker, Verscio Walter Flückiger, Schönenbuch Brem, Seon Franz Pfister, Rickenbach Hans-Jörg Suter, Zürich Rudolf Flück-Peterhans, Konrad Keller, Bremgarten Rudolf and Monika Pfister- Paul Thalmann, Hinwil Bottmingen Theodor Keller, Niederglatt Haibtlik, Zürich Andreas Thöny and Katharina Paul and Heidi Flühmann- Armin Kölliker, Beringen Ulrich F. Pfister-Kaufmann, Willimann, Spiegel b. Bern Simmen, Biberist Emil Kölliker, Möriken Gelterkinden Felix Thommen, Zollikon E. and P. Fornallaz, Basel Barbara König, Degersheim Eva Plüss, Meiringen Luzius Tscharner-Hartmann, Gottfried Frey, Ammerzwil Horst Köpf, Zürich Hans Peter Rahm, Rafz Münchenstein Ernst Frischknecht, Oberaach Melanie Kopp, Buchs Michael Rahn, Erlinsbach Annette Tschudi-Stahel, Zürich Georgette and Dr. Klaus Froesch- Anna Maria and Karl Kramer, Annegrete and Hans Rey-Haller, Esther Vaissière-Meier, Wallisellen Edelmann, Adliswil Kramer Stiftung, Zürich Klaus Vogt-Rippmann, Scherz Silvia and Viktor Fröhlicher- Ann Krebs, Ins Cornelie Rieger, Buch José von Ah, Regensberg Steiger, Bellach Patrick and Brigitte Krummen- Christine Rodriguez, Obermumpf Kurt Wachter, Schaan Christian Gähwiler, Bottmingen acher-Zehnder, Schüpfheim Monica and Jürg Rohner, Reinach Annemarie Walter, Frick Rosmarie and Jean Gabriel Gander, Rolf and Irma Kubli-Fenner, Zürich Peter Rölli, Möhlin Verena Wälti, -Schernelz Hallau Max Kuert-Oesch, Langenthal Urs Rudolph, Cassina d‘Agno H.R. Weber, Meilen Andreas Geis, Bühl Theo Kuhn-Stoll, Arlesheim Susanne Ruppen, Zürich Anton and Ruth Weibel-Looser, Ernst Graf, Heiden Marco Küng, Mammern Theresia Saladin, Bern Frauenfeld Jakob Graf, Rehetobel Theodor Langauer, Muttenz Hans Christian Salzmann, Johannes Weisenhorn, Johannes Graf-Angst, Bassersdorf Doris Länzlinger-Doetschmann, Schöfflisdorf Elisabeth Greuter, Orselina Russikon Schäppi Grandstücke, Zürich Karl Wellinger, Kappel Peter Grossenbacher, Hindelbank Beatrice Lanzrein Kaltenrieder, Rudolf Schär Winkelmann, David Wells, Rüschlikon Max Gschwend, Arlesheim Herrenschwanden Winterthur Elsbeth Werner, Zollikon Rudolf Guggisberg, Basel Denise and Fritz Lerch-Grieder, Werner Scheidegger, Madiswil Thomas Wernli, Bern Renate Gygax-Däppen, Burgdorf Gächlingen Peter Schibler, Stäfa Stephan Widmer, Baar Regula Gysler, Dürnten Thomas Leu, Hemmental Samuel Schmid, Bern Nelli Winterberger, Zumikon M. and F. Halbeis-Probst, Beat Leuch, Zuben Vreni Schmid-Grether, Arlesheim Renate Wintsch-Linsi, Winterthur Langendorf Katharina Leupold, Basel Dorothea Schmidt, Nyon Max Wirz-Schaffner, Nelly Hari, Flaach U. and H. Lichtenhahn-Henauer, Robert Schmied, Gächlingen Jürg Wullschleger, Stein Schaffhausen Rolf Hartmann, Ursula Schmocker-Willi, Walter Wyler-Bachofer, Buchs Magdalena Lobsiger, Aegerten E. and P. Härtsch-Müller, Oberrieden Hélène Wyss-Néel, Arlesheim Felix and Ruth Löffler, Riehen Binningen Hans Schneider, Weinfelden Heinz Zumstein, Oberwil Silvia Loose-Brunner, Comano Jürg Hauri, Muttenz Rudolf Schori-Bürk, Riehen Marc Zumstein, Küttigen H.R. Lötscher, Zürich Hans Hauri-Karrer, Baden-Dättwil Maja Schreiber, Thalwil Brigitta Züst, Luzern Dieter Lüscher, Bremgarten Hans Hege, Hinterkappelen Ellen Schröder, Susanna Züst, Zürich Pierre Lustenberger, Fehraltorf Martin Heidersberger, Gert Schuckmann, Dornach Aarg. Kantonalbank, Münchenstein Ulrich Mäder, Mäder Kräuter, Daniel Schwarz, Rechnungswesen, Aarau Boppelsen E. Heierli-Forrer, Winterthur R. and E. Schwindl-Roth, Basel Bioterra, Regionalgruppe Zürcher H. Maggiori, Wilchingen Ursula Heiniger, Zürich Fritz Seiler, Belp Oberland, Männedorf Regula Manz-Keller, Silvia Henggeler, Meggen Hansueli Seiler, Zürich Blum Rechtsanwälte, Zürich Ueli Hepp, Wald Heinrich Maurer-Zberg, Egg b. H.H. Zaeslin Charit. Trust, Citco Zürich Kari Senn, Riehen Peter Hirni, Interlaken Christine Sidler, Brig-Glis Trustees (Cayman), Grand- Anna Meret-Mertens, Zürich Cayman Luc Hoffmann, Montricher H.U. and S. Spahn, Spreitenbach Elisabeth Mertens, Zürich Isotech Ticino SA, St. Antonino Walter Hofmann, M. and A. Spörri-Steiger, Rüti E. and G. Meyer-Hunziker, Dr. Meyer Verwaltungen AG, Bern Hans-Jürg Hofmann-Berger, Hansjürg and Vreni Städeli-Uetz, Ellikon an der Thur Mönchaltorf Rahn and Bodmer, Zürich Max Mibus, Schwarzenberg Nürensdorf Hans and Heidi Holzer-Egli, Hugo Stadelmann, Solothurn Stiftung Fürstlicher Männedorf Vreni Mohler, Therwil Kommerzienrat Guido Feger, Annelise Stähli, Zürich Hans Huber, Elgg E. and A. Moll Mongiusti, Basel Vaduz Max Stähli, Glattfelden Paul and Dorothee Hügli, C. and A. Morell-Perl, Pratval Tobi Seeobst AG, Bischofszell Ostermundigen Verena Moreno-Zust, Spiegel b. Hanspeter Stahlie, Ebnat-Kappel Susi Hunziker-Fretz, Küttigen Bern Many others have supported us. Our heartfelt thanks! Caspar Hürlimann, Zürich Fritz Moser-Rohrbach, Rebeuvelier As private institutions we continue to depend on you in the future and are Hans Hürlimann, Triesenberg Hans Moser-Züst, Bassersdorf always pleased to receive small and large donations (PC 80–40697–0). Anton Müller, Hinterkappelen For further information, see also page 72.

Activity report | 2008 49 Foundation Council of FiBL Switzerland

Foundation Council of FiBL Switzerland

Martin Ott Bio-dynamic farmer, Fintan Foundation, Dr. Rolf Gerling Bio Suisse Steering Committee President of the Gerling Foundation

Erol Bilecen Head of Client Services, Sarasin Sustainable Investment, Susanne Hochuli Bank Sarasin und Cie AG, Basel Councillor of the Canton of Aargau

Othmar Bernet Ruth Humbel Organic farmer National Councillor

Jörg Brun Head of Food/Near Food Marketing at the Migros coope- Hans Rudolf Locher ratives federation Journalist, food advisor

Hildegard Fässler National Councillor, Vice-President of the FiBL Foundation Dr. Urs Niggli Council Director of FiBL Frick

Nikolai Fuchs Dornach Dr. Ulrich Siegrist Head of the Natural Sciences Section, Department of Former Canton of Aargau State Councillor, Agriculture at the Goetheanum Former National Councillor

Dr. Urs Gantner Prof. Dr. Hartmut Vogtmann Head of Research Staff of the Swiss Federal President of The Organic Research Centre at Elm Farm; Office for Agriculture (FOAG) in Berne President of Euronatur

Rolf Gerber Dr. Felix Wehrle Head of the Landscape and Nature Office of the Canton Head of Communication, of Zurich Member of Coop Executive

50 Activity report | 2008 The staff of FiBL Switzerland

Meili Eric Kirchgraber Claudia MSc ETH Head of Institute, Administration Catering Dipl. Graphic Design Milk & meat, buil- Graphic design ding construction

Niggli Urs Schädeli Alfred Obrist Robert Dr. sc. ETH Dipl.-Ing. Agr. HTL MSc ETH Director FiBL Ackermann Anita Editor ‘bioaktuell’ & Education, projects Switzerland Restaurant ‘Beiträge’ in the regions Springer Bettina MSc ETH At Sevkan Belloli André Schmutz Res Advisor, farm mana- Administrative Manager of internal Dipl.-Ing. Agr. HTL gement and building trainee services Advisory documents construction Tschabold Jean-Luc Weidmann Gilles MSc ETH MSc ETH Fruit production & Basler Nina Belloli Erika Editor, information viticulture (Western Courses, feedstuffs Restaurant manager notes, manuals Switzerland)

Willer Helga Dr. rer. nat. Bayer Erika Cafaro Immacolata Head of division: Development and cooperation Secretariat domestic services Communication

Eisenring Tobias MBA, MSci Droll Beat Hajdarpasic Ahmo Extension and training Market development, Head of accounting Transport Asia

Böhler Daniel Garibay Salvador Krebs Trudi Dipl.-Ing. Agr. (FH) Dr. sc. ETH Götschi Sabine Restaurant, Meat production, Organic farming and Accounting domestic services tillage farming markets in the tropics Böhler Klaus MSc ETH Heeb Marlene Schär Lisbeth Animal husbandry, Dipl. Biol. König Monika Restaurant, feed production, Coordination Eastern Secretariat domestic services farm management Europe

Chevillat Véronique Huber Beate M Sc Dipl.-Ing. agr. (FH) Rickenbacher Beat Schnyder Isabella Feedstuffs, plant Organic certification EDP Caretaker, restaurant production trials and accreditation Clerc Maurice Kilcher Lukas MSc ETH MSc ETH Tillage production, Head of division: Rölli Nicole Communication farm network (Wes- International Head of secretariat tern Switzerland) cooperation

Dierauer Hansueli Schindler Maja Ackermann Nadine MSc ETH Schneider Monika Accounting, Dipl.-Ing. agr. Head of division: MSc ETH secretariat Editor, Internet Advisory services Eastern Europe, Africa

Williner Stefan Alföldi Thomas Früh Barbara van den Berge Paul Personnel MSc ETH Dipl.-Ing. FH Dipl.-Ing. HTL management, Research Feedstuffs, non- Vegetables, orna- accountancy coordination ruminants mentals, standards Häseli Andreas Dipl.-Ing. Agr. HTL Ziegler Katia Bär Markus Fruit production & MSc ETH lic. phil. viticulture, plant Standards, Editor ‘bioaktuell’ protection certification

Lichtenhahn Martin Zundel Christine Gorba Daniel MSc ETH Dr. Sci ETH Layout designer Vegetable & herb Africa, on-farm Graphics production, courses research

Activity report | 2008 51 The staff of FiBL Switzerland

Fahrni André Thürig Barbara Schneider Claudia Research Wine grower Dr. phil. Dipl.-Ing. agr. Viticulture Phytopathology Ethology, cows

Koller Martin Staehli Pamela Soil sciences Dipl.-Ing. FH Entomology med. vet. Vegetable production Health of dairy cows

Arncken-Karutz Balmer Oliver Christine Lévite Dominique Dr. phil. Walkenhorst Michael MSc ETH, Breeding, Dipl.-Ing. IUVV Biodiversity, nature med. vet cereal quality Viticulture, oenology conservation Health of dairy cows

Berner Alfred Suter Francisco MSc ETH Dipl. Ing. agr. Daniel Claudia, Dipl.- Farmyard manures, Fruit, soft-fruit pro- Ing. Horticulture FH Veterinary parasitology fertilizers duction, tree nurseries Biological pest control

Fliessbach Andreas Luka Henryk Amsler-Kepalaite Dr. sc. agr. Tuchschmid Andreas Dr. phil., Ing. agr. Zivile Soil biology and soil Ing. HTL Biodiversity, Dipl. Agroecology ecology Manager FiBL vineyard taxonomy Field trials, laboratory

Frei Robert Pfiffner Lukas, Dr. Heckendorn Felix Dipl.-Ing. Agr. HTL van der Meer Markus phil-nat, Dipl.-Ing. Agr. Dr. Sc. ETH Field crop production Dipl. Geograph ETH, Biodiversity & Endoparasites in experiments Weinbau habitat management ruminants Weibel Franco Hildermann Isabell Dr. sc. ETH Wyss Eric Krenmayr Ilse MSc Head of division: Dr. phil. Dipl.-Ing. agr. Cereal varieties and Plant production, Head of division: Veterinary mycorrhiza fruit production Entomology parasitology lab Maurer Veronika Kaiser Franziska Dr. sc. ETH Dipl. Biol. Head of division: Organic inoculation, Phytopathology Animal health Veterinary mycorrhiza parasitology

Mäder Paul, Dr. phil, Biegel Ulrike Perler Erika Dipl. Ing. Agr. ETH, Amsler Thomas med. vet. Biology laboratory Head of division: Soil Horticulture Mistletoe therapy for Field and laboratory science Field trials, laboratory dogs and cats trials Nietlispach Bruno Lab technician Dipl. Fuchs Jacques Clottu Ophélie nature and environ- Dr. sc. ETH med. vet. Animal husbandry ment specialist, Phytopathology, Mistletoe therapy for and animal management Laboratory, analytics composts horses Bieber Anna Mahlberg Nicole MSci. agr. Schmid Heinz Dipl.-Ing. Agr. FH Ivemeyer Silvia, Dipl.-Ing. Livestock husbandry & MSc ETH Lab and trial Animal husbandry, breeding (poultry and Climate fund technician animal health minor livestock)

Klocke Peter Spengler Neff Anet Thommen Andreas Schärer Hans-Jakob Dr. med. vet. Dipl.-Ing. Agr. ETH MSc ETH MSc ETH Head of division: Animal health, animal Organic seed Phytopathology, seed Animal health breeding Werne Steffen Speiser Bernhard MSci. agr. Dr. phil. Maeschli Ariane Livestock husbandry & Potatoes, auxiliary Dr. med. vet. breeding (poultry and Crop production inputs, slugs & snails Health of dairy cows minor livestock) Zeltner Esther Tamm Lucius, Dr. phil., Notz Christophe Dipl. phil.-nat Billmann Bettina MSc ETH med. vet. Livestock husbandry & Dipl.-Ing. agr. Head of division: Complementary breeding (poultry and Ornamental plants Phytopathology medicine minor livestock)

52 Activity report | 2008 The staff of FiBL Switzerland

Sanders Jürn Dr. Sc. Seidel Katrin Socio-economics Agricultural policy, Food quality Dipl. oec. troph. rural development Food safety, nutrition

Bahrdt Katja Schader Christian Wyss Gabriela Dipl.-Ing. agr. Dipl.-Ing. agr. Granado José Dr. sc. nat. Consumer and market Agricultural policy, Dr. phil. Head of division: research multifunctionality Microbiology, foods Food quality

Schmid Otto, MSc Jäckel Jennifer ETH Hilber Isabel M.A. Soz. Rural development, Dipl. Natw. ETH Experimental farm Agri-sociology standards Residues in soils

Landau Bettina Stolz Hanna Dr. sc. agr. M Sc Louw-Prevost Martina Allemann Marianne Organisation EU Consumer and market MSc ETH Experimental farm projects research Food safety staff

Stolze Matthias Kretzschmar-Rüger Moschitz Heidrun Dr. sc. agr. Ursula, Food engineer Dipl.-Ing. agr. Head of division: Processing of organic Allemann Pius Agricultural policy Socio-economics foods Master farm manager

Rudmann Christine Oehen Bernadette Dr. sc. ETH MAS ETH Farm management, Freedom from genetic farm network engineering

Staff arrivals Holzherr Philipp Morales Bernardos Inés Students producing diploma theses Bär Markus Kerbage Laurent Müller Michael Bantleon Georg Balmer Oliver König Zeltner Cornelia Pasche Aline Beermann Marina Bayer Erika Kraus Noëmy Perret Jean-Luc Dittrich Priska Bieber Anna Larbi Mohamed Pino Lucas Silvia Hammelehle Andreas Eisenring Tobias Majewsky Vera Seidel Kathrin Kilchsperger Rahel Gloor Marianne Moser Samuel Thut Stefan Korte Nicola Götschi Sabine Nowack Heimgartner Karin van der Meer Markus Leimgruber Andrea Guerrero-Zimmermann Michael Portmann Katrin Weber Felix Lirsch Katharina Hildermann Isabell Richter Toralf Werne Steffen Meier Jsabel Jäckel Jennifer Schlatter Christian Winter Remo Penzkofer Magdalena Kaiser Franziska Vieweger Anja Probst Johanna Kraus Noëmy Zimmermann Maria Student guests Schied Johannes Louw-Prevost Martina Bendani Zoubir Wagner Salomé Schmid Heinz Trainees Buess René Welwarsky Yvonne Seidel Kathrin Bargetzi Laura Capponi Sergio Willareth Martin Staehli Pamela Baumann Denise Erhard-Bucher Gertrud van der Meer Markus Berger Nicole Farag Mohamed Visitors Werne Steffen Bieber Anna Huber Franz Agarwal Pavan De Reise Silva Cide Cil Kamm Brigitte Cornish Peter Staff departures Egger Regula Monzeglio Ursula Lang Andreas Bolliger Conradin Gelman Bagaria Pablo-Enrique Schmid Yvonne Schaack Diana Gloor Marianne Géneau Céline Schneider Hélène Stoerrle Maria Guarino Maria Hothum Kathi Schüpfer Rudolf Oyama Toshio Guerrero-Zimmermann Michael Huber Fabienne Singer Bernhard Zaferiou Rigas Heil Fritz Jancaryova Danica Hertzberg Hubertus Kaiser Franziska Community service Hirt Helen Moesch Michèle Eigenmann Christian

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systems should set different priorities in terms of objectives. The many small breeders engaged in this area are not capable of solving these research questions on their own. As cereals Soil science are a key crop in organic farming, we are clarifying the essen- tial elements of the interaction between genetics (plants) and Efficiency of cropping systems environment (site factors such as soil and climate, as well as The natural resources available for producing food, such as cropping intensity). How the plant root and soil interact under fertile soil, biological diversity, water and fertilizer nutrients reduced tillage conditions is of special interest to us. are becoming increasingly scarce. At the same time agriculture needs to become more independent of non-renewable fossil energy, which is used in the form of synthetic nitrogen ferti- lizers and fuels. By comparing different cropping systems for their resource use efficiency, we can make a crucial contribu- tion to the further development of agriculture. Thanks to three long-term field trials and targeted studies on individual farms, Horticultural production methods FiBL is uniquely placed to carry out this type of research. Of special interest to us is the diversity of microorganism commu- Problem-solving and innovation in the value chain of nities in the soil and their function in building up and mineral- organic fruit izing organic matter (humus). This is highly topical in view of Fruit production has always been a technology-intensive in- climate change, because soils are capable of removing carbon dustry requiring a great deal of auxiliary input. Despite this from the atmosphere. – or perhaps because of it – all-natural quality is in high de- Strategies to optimize yields mand. Already 11 % of the stone fruit sold by market leader Coop is organic, and they consider 20 % to be a realistic figure. The major challenge of the future is to produce more high- The market for cherries, plums, pears, berries, grapes and nos- quality foods, applying methods which place much less pres- talgic fruit varieties still holds untapped potential. The main sure on the environment and use natural resources with care. obstacle facing the expansion of fruit cultivation is currently a Organic farming provides an ideal starting point for this, as it is lack of varieties which are economically viable for organic pro- already sustainable and the quality is high; only its productivity duction. It is also vital that we reconsider our present methods needs slight improvement. Our research concentrates on crop of cultivation (plantations on dwarfing rootstock well suited to rotation, the improvement of animal-soil-plant nutrient cycles, mechanization) and develop more natural fruit orchards with adaptive reduced tillage, the application of beneficial soil bac- a greater capacity for self-regulation (up to and including agro- teria and root symbiotic fungi (mycorrhiza), along with vari- forestry systems). ous preparations that have a catalytic impact on soil processes. Our research projects concentrate on testing numerous new The emphasis is on arable farming and horticulture. varieties and also old ones grown under organic conditions, Ecotoxicological assessment of biological and improving yield security and economic viability with preven- chemical pressures on soils tive and natural practices, carefully examining any weak points in transportability and shelf life, and optimizing the quality of Soil fertility has always been the basis of organic agriculture, the fruit in terms of content, taste and nutritional value. and today it is a main focus of the global debate on sustain- ability. Over the past 20 years FiBL has built up a high level of Optimizing production and quality in organic methodological and technical expertise with respect to the bio- viticulture and vinification logical, physical and chemical issues surrounding soil fertility. Organic wines are currently experiencing a positive change of In the framework of a risk assessment system we are exploring image among consumers. In Europe biodynamic wines in par- the effects of conventional and genetically modified organisms ticular are considered some of the highest quality wines avail- on soil fertility. We are also investigating regionally and tempo- able. Swiss organic production competes with good-quality, rally specific indicators of pesticide contamination of the soil, affordable wines from abroad. Top quality, specialty products and are developing methods to produce food safely on sites and the reduction of production costs are possible strategies to damaged by previous land uses. cope with this situation. Organic production today is based on Seed and environment heritage varieties which are susceptible to disease and need a great deal of pest management. This is far from ideal, both from The Swiss Organic Farming Ordinance and the EU Regulation an ecological and an economic point of view. Fungus-resistant on organic production stipulate that organic seeds and vegeta- varieties (PIWIs) are an elegant solution, but their proportion tive propagating material must be used in organic crop farm- on organic vineyards today is only 10%. Our research projects ing. As the seed markets are not yet fully established and there concentrate on questions surrounding the PIWI varieties: are still numerous exemptions, FiBL is coordinating the supply monitoring their suitability for cultivation, resistance and wine of organic seeds by maintaining an Internet database. Of in- quality, adapting vinification to the new varieties and support- creasing importance in the sustainability debate is the ques- ing their market introduction. The further development of an tion of whether plant breeding for low-input and sustainable organic crop protection regime for traditional European varie-

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ties is constantly being advanced (new preparations, improved grape production so that they can also be applied to organic computerized forecast models). Furthermore, we are investi- production. Furthermore, stable agricultural systems, which gating the question of low-sulphite and sulphite-free organic are highly adaptable to the hazards of climate change, are of wines and, in field and cellar trials, are analysing the question fundamental interest to us. We are especially interested in “clo- of whether and why organic – and in particular biodynamic ver soil fatigue,” i.e. the effect of pathogens that proliferate in – viticulture leads to a distinctive terroir quality. crop rotations with many legumes. Good legume growth is a key factor in the productivity of sustainable cropping systems. Optimizing production systems and quality formation in organic vegetable and ornamental plant production Testing and developing fungicides and resistance Growing organic vegetables and ornamentals is usually highly inducers compatible with organic standards for fruit, specialized and therefore prone to problems. The high expecta- grapes, vegetables and potatoes tions of the market as regards product appearance and qual- Various plant protection products and plant tonics are ap- ity require extensive research and development. Entirely new proved for organic crop production. These products may be of methods of cultivation must even be developed for certain botanical (e.g., fennel oil) or mineral (e.g., argillaceous earths) crops such as green asparagus. On largely livestock-free vegeta- origin. The requirements for the products are becoming more ble farms, the level of self-sufficiency with nutrients is very lim- stringent: on one hand increased efficacy is being demanded ited. In theory green manuring with clovers could bring some for existing products and on the other hand the requirements improvement, but in practical terms there are still too many regarding ecotoxicity and human toxicity are increasing. Along knowledge gaps. Organic seeds continue to be in short supply; with the testing and development of novel natural products enhanced development of organic seed dressing and ongoing and organisms, finding alternatives to copper-based fungicides testing of organic varieties are the most efficient methods of is of the highest priority. dealing with this problem. Consumers of organic vegetables Recent research has shown that crops possess a number of de- expect great visual and sensory diversity (of nostalgic varieties, fence mechanisms, which can be activated to varying degrees too); they want them to taste good, have a long shelf-life and and which are collectively known as resistance induction. The promote their health. Organic vegetable growers can only sat- systematic use of these natural defence mechanisms may be of isfy such high expectations if they have the support of research. great benefit to organic production. In addition to vegetables, we also address production and mar- Plant protection: Strategies and epidemiologies for keting matters concerning herbs and ornamentals. fruit, grapes, vegetables and potatoes Plant diseases cause considerable losses in yield and quality in organic production. Organic production relies on preventative measures more than any other agricultural production meth- od. Such measures include the use of healthy seed, hygiene measures, resistant cultivars, cultivar mixes, cultural practices Phytopathology (such as pre-sprouting potatoes) and optimum soil fertility. Direct control measures are a last resort. These consist of spe- Improving potato production techniques cial fungicides, biocontrol organisms and elicitors (resistance inducers). Plant protection products require optimum appli- Organic quality potatoes are an important market commod- cation techniques and timing, especially when efficacy is only ity and a high value crop for growers. Although considerable partial. The use of warning systems as decision aids in timing progress has been made in terms of plant protection (from var- applications is on the rise. These warning systems are based on ious foliar and tuber pathogens and pests such as Phytophtora the analysis of weather data. The use of such warning systems infestans, Rhizoctonia, wireworms), yields are highly variable can substantially improve pest and disease control in organic from year to year and the percentage of non-marketable pro- production as well. duce is exceptionally high, which in turn reduces profitability. Our applied research projects focus on the questions of which Seed quality and breeding new cultivars and heirloom or exotic varieties are suited for or- Healthy seed and vegetative propagating material is of para- ganic production, how fertilization, plant protection, and crop mount importance for organic production. Seed must be true rotation can be optimized, and how substantial improvements to variety, must not be contaminated with genetically modified in quality can be achieved. organisms (GMOs), must have a high germination percentage Fundamentals of soil-plant-disease interaction and vigour, and must be disease-free. Along with the compul- sory use of organically grown seed, there must be methods in Plant health also depends on soil fertility, specifically soil struc- place that enable (i) the early detection of quality-related prob- ture (air and water balance), nutrient levels, and microbiologi- lems, (ii) acceptable levels of seed production in the field, and cal activity. Disease-reducing soil properties can be weakened (iii) seed treatment in line with organic standards. as well as enhanced by cultivation techniques. Soil preparation, This project will promote the production of high quality, fertilization, and use of good quality compost are priorities. healthy vegetable seed. For a few key crops, we are searching The goal of our research projects is to gain a better under- for organically appropriate methods and products to treat seed standing of these interactions in field crop, vegetable, fruit, and for seed-borne pathogens.

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Evaluating auxiliary inputs and technologies for Biodiversity for the farmer‘s benefit organic production When deployed intelligently, biodiversity can also be of di- The use of auxiliary inputs such as plant protection products, rect benefit to the farmer: pest populations can be reduced by fertilizers, disinfectants and products to control veterinary pests systematic promotion of predatory and parasitic beneficials is regulated in various bodies of public legislation (Switzerland, through carefully selected companion plantings within and EU, United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization FAO) around the crops. These promotion measures must be adapted and private-sector standards (Bio Suisse, International Federa- to the crop and to the pest complex. Moreover, they must be tion of Organic Agriculture Movements IFOAM). A formal ap- technically and economically feasible. Thanks to basic and ap- proval process confirming compliance with organic standards, plied research, strategies for functional biodiversity are being however, is lacking in Switzerland as well as in the rest of the developed for various crops. world. With its list of approved auxiliary inputs (Hilfsstoffliste), Beneficials for pest control FiBL has established a standard for scientific testing and ap- proval since 1996. Today there are comparable procedures in Nearly every pest is known to have a beneficial as a natural ene- place in Germany, Austria and the United States. The strict and my. These beneficials may be fungi, viruses, bacteria, predatory transparent regulation of auxiliary inputs is an important tool or parasitic insects or arachnids. There are some very efficient in gaining consumer trust. International standardization of the beneficials for some pests, and these are being used effectively regulations and criteria for approval of new products is thus of on a commercial scale. The use of these beneficial organisms paramount importance. enables reduction in the use of standard pesticides. Through Organic agriculture is an innovative food production system. systematic research and development, we hope to discover ad- Great strides are being made in technology, with strict atten- ditional beneficials and test them against pests in various crops. tion to social, ethical and ecological criteria as well. We will use The goal is to collaborate with industry and get new products simple criteria to evaluate new animal breeding, plant breed- approved and on the market. ing, food processing and food packaging technologies (e.g., na- Protecting plants from pests notechnology) thoroughly. Our expertise should help not only the organic production sector but other groups in society as Direct plant protection measures are frequently used as a last well in making a judgment. resort in organic production due to the limited selection of ap- proved products available to organic farmers. In order to en- sure profitable production and high quality of certain crops, however, these products are important. Selective and effective plant protection methods in line with organic standards are be- ing developed in collaboration with industry partners. Novel insecticides, physical controls, pheromones and plant tonics are thus priorities for research.

Entomology Nature conservation and farming Animal health There are numerous studies substantiating the positive effects Complementary and alternative medicine for animals of organic agriculture on animal and plant species diversity. Animals in organic operations are usually treated with ortho- Organic agriculture is thus especially well suited to the devel- dox veterinary measures when they get diseases. There is much opment of viable, diverse cultural landscapes. Nevertheless, it interest, however, in alternative or complementary treatment is evident that organic farmers could make even greater im- methods. The gap between their widespread use and the lack of provements in nature conservation: flora and fauna can benefit scientific proof of their activity and efficacy, however, creates a greatly from suitably adapted cultural practices and systematic need for basic research, which must be conducted in controlled assessment of landscape structures. We plan to evaluate the systems under laboratory conditions. Testing such medications workability of these different methods on pilot farms and in under field conditions is also essential. Hence the goal of this pilot regions. An additional priority of this project cluster is the module is to demonstrate the activity of potentized substances provision of consultancy services to farmers. Nature conser- on biological systems in the laboratory and to test the efficacy vation should become an enterprise that is also economically of residue-free, natural medications on diseased animals. Up- profitable. In collaboration with the Schweizerische Vogelwarte to-date recommendations will be based on practical experience bird observatory and Bio Suisse, FiBL is striving to preserve in- and backed up by controlled, scientific methods. Emphasis will tact, diverse ecosystems and promote biodiversity. be on field studies to assess the applicability of the experimen- tally tested protocols.

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Epidemiology and development of preventative ventional operations is to de-worm the animals with synthetic strategies for animal health antihelminthics. Their use is not without problems (resistance, The health of farm animals is influenced by many factors. These effect on soil organisms), however. In past years, diverse non- include the environment, feeding, husbandry, social behaviour drug procedures (e.g., pasture management, bioactive forages, in the herd/flock, and management and care provided by hu- selection of resistant animals) have been developed and their mans. The scientific analysis of all of these factors and their efficacy has been confirmed. The goal for the coming years is to effect on animal health will provide valuable information for implement these strategies and in particular to exploit their ad- both consultancy and practical applications. In these analyses, ditive effects. Special attention shall be paid to the profitability we will determine which factors contribute to health in farm of new control strategies of this nature. These methods promise animal herds/flocks (epidemiology). FiBL’s „pro-Q“ pilot farm great strides for all livestock producers, regardless of produc- network with over 150 dairy operations will serve as a database tion method and herd size. and foundation for such analyses. The goal is the elaboration Controlling endoparasites in nonruminants of factor catalogues that focus specifically on the unique situa- tions and conditions of organic production. The results of the Worm parasites and coccidia are one of the worst health prob- epidemiological research will build on these catalogues and lems in poultry, swine and rabbit production. In rabbit pro- serve as the foundation for holistic, practice-oriented animal duction, for example, the economic losses are enormous, and health programmes designed to prevent animal diseases. The all producers struggle with major problems. Preventative ap- rudiments of such animal health programmes are already in proaches in nonruminants are less sophisticated and also less place in the area of udder health and they will be further devel- effective than in ruminants and horses. For these reasons, al- oped to include other disease complexes and animal species. ternative treatments (such as phytotherapy) supplement pre- ventative measures in these animal species. Controlling ectoparasites Animal health and quality The knowledge gained is being implemented in herd/flock Problems with insect and mite parasites are likely to increase health management systems. Farmers who sign up to such in the future, as global warming creates more favourable living management systems benefit from comprehensive, holistic conditions for these pests. As a consequence, their importance animal health consultancy. This involves close cooperation as vectors of diseases (e.g., bluetongue) and as problems in between the farmers and extension services and veterinarians. animal protection and hygiene will also increase. Certain pre- The special feature of the systems is that they combine animal ventative measures against ectoparasites are known, but they welfare, disease prevention and complementary medicine with are frequently insufficient to reduce infestations in farm ani- a high quality of milk and meat. The management programmes mals to tolerable levels. The chemical-synthetic products still are applicable to different production systems (organic, IP, con- in widespread use therefore need to be replaced as quickly as ventional), different problem areas (udder health, fertility) and possible with improved preventative measures and more effec- different animal species. Special emphasis is also placed on the tive natural products. profitability and sustainability of livestock management.

Animal breeding, livestock husbandry Veterinary parasitology Animal welfare and environmental performance Today’s society vehemently demands species-appropriate and Analysing the parasite infestation situation in animals environmentally-appropriate milk, meat and egg production. in organic operations Organic production is playing an exemplary role in this area. Organic operations face greater parasite problems, as on one Workable and ethically acceptable livestock management strat- hand the animals come into contact more often with parasites egies are undergoing continuous development and new, envi- due to the compulsory access to pastures and runs, and on the ronmentally sound livestock management systems are being other hand because prophylactic medication is not allowed. A researched and tested. Corresponding research and assessment targeted implementation of antiparasite treatments is possible methods are being developed and applied. with the help of a situation analysis on the farm level. Con- Special priorities for research in this area include the transport siderable reduction in the number of treatments can often be and slaughter of farm animals, as well as reduction of stress achieved this way, without compromising the health of the ani- and losses in meat quality. Additionally, we are conducting new mals. research on rabbits, as they are a very interesting niche. Feed- ing, feed supplements, species-appropriate management pro- Controlling endoparasites in ruminants grammes, prevention and treatment of coccidiosis, and meat Grazing animals are infected with worm parasites that need quality are priorities. to be controlled for economical as well as animal welfare rea- The results have important implications in terms of practi- sons. The current standard practice on both organic and con- cal applications as well as development of new methods and

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insights in the areas of animal behaviour, species-appropriate a large amount of data in the form of information, analysis and livestock management, and human-animal relationships. case studies. Sustainable animal breeding Processing In terms of breeding goals, the priorities of organic agriculture Of course it is not only fresh products but also processed or- are different than those of traditional agriculture: the health ganic products – in economically significant quantities – that and fertility of the animals as well as product quality are at consumers put on their plates. The organic concept therefore the top of the list. It is therefore necessary to develop breed- needs to be developed and established in the longer term in ing strategies that give priority to the pursuit of these goals. the processing sector as well as at the level of raw materials. Furthermore, research is needed to determine which breed- Strategies are needed for environmentally friendly and sustain- ing animals fulfil these goals. Traditional breeding strategies able processing methods, recipes and packaging. As well as do not always employ techniques that are compatible with the resource-saving processing methods, aspects such as sensory concepts and goals of ecological agriculture. As a consequence, quality, the minimal use of additives, freshness and authen- there is a need for ongoing discussion of ethical aspects in con- ticity are important quality criteria. FiBL is addressing these nection with breeding strategies and reproduction techniques issues in relation to processing and working with partners in organic production, as well as for the elaboration and com- from research, monitoring and industry to develop solutions munication of appropriate recommendations. and improvements. Building on experience gained in research projects and a broad skills network, FiBL is able to offer prob- lem-oriented advice in the areas of processing and marketing and to organize conferences on matters of special interest. Food quality and safety Evaluating new technologies New technologies can open up large-scale opportunities, but Food quality and health they may also entail great risks. We are engaged in the evalua- The quality of organic products, particularly in terms of their tion and pre-emptive avoidance of the risks of new technolo- nutritional and physiological benefits and their positive or gies in organic food production. At the core of our activities is negative effects on health, is a constantly recurring theme in the assessment of genetic engineering and its application in the the media and in public debate. Organic foods do indeed dif- context of sustainable food production. We support the actors fer in many quality-related respects from those produced by of the organic food sector with information and advice. We also other systems. FiBL is interested in particular in the verifiable carry out research into relevant issues affecting the production connections between the chosen method of cultivation and the of food without genetically modified organisms (GMOs); these resulting quality of the food produced, and in the impact of include the costs of coexistence, seed purity, and the monitor- cultivation method on the well-being and health of consumers. ing of GMOs in the environment. Recently, nanotechnology Organic quality research explores this multi-disciplinary area has also joined the agenda; for organic products it could have by means of feeding and intervention studies on both animals potential in the areas of resource-saving processing and qual- and people. As part of this work, FiBL devises and scientifically ity-conserving packaging. Against these prospects must be set validates integrated quality assessment methods. The impact concerns about the impact of nanoparticles on health and the of microflora on product quality is also studied by appropriate environment. methods. Food safety The market for organic products is growing extraordinarily fast, trade flows are becoming more and more international Socio-economics and in many places there are bottlenecks in the procurement of raw materials produced to organic standards. In consequence Policy impact assessment the demands on the quality assurance of organic products are Using the CH-FARMIS sector model it is possible to analyse increasing. There is also a growing incentive for farmers who the impacts of different parameters of agricultural policy on do not take the stringency of organic standards too seriously organic farming in Switzerland (income, farm organization, to seek a foothold in this lucrative market. Even with one of product range, relative excellence of organic agriculture). Be- the best quality assurance systems of the entire food industry, cause ecological indicators are integrated into CH-FARMIS, the organic sector is not immune to malpractice; there is room the system can be used to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of sus- for improvement throughout the production, processing and tainable farming systems in providing environmental services. transport chain. By means of targeted courses, projects, ad- The future of farming visory work and publications we function as an information platform and support those involved in organic agriculture The farmers of the future need core competencies in business (producers, processors, monitoring and certification bodies skills and sustainable management. In this cluster we create the and food inspection) in their efforts to safeguard organic pro- necessary scientific foundation. Relevant subject areas are: the duction along the entire supply chain. FiBL has now acquired role and importance of cooperation, secondary sources of in- come, non-food diversification and new technologies.

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Consumer behaviour addresses the training needs of the young generation and has Quantitative methods of consumer research are used to study set up a training course leading to the qualification of “farmer the behaviour and confidence of consumers who only occa- with federal certificate of competence specializing in organic sionally buy organic products. One area of this work involves agriculture”. FiBL is involved in teaching at various agricultural the arguments – other than the organic argument – used by colleges, the universities of agriculture and the Zurich Swiss producers to portray their corporate social responsibility; the Federal Institute of Technology (ETH). communicative impact of these arguments on consumers is in- Projects vestigated and improved. FiBL’s extension workers speed up the transfer of knowledge Agriculture and society from research to practice (and vice versa) through the insti- In order to draw up principles which will guide political actors tute’s own demonstration trials and highly practice-oriented in ensuring the sustainable use and development of rural areas, surveys and experiments. These on-farm trials are methodo- it is first necessary to analyse the present and future social en- logically very simple, but they help to accelerate innovation. vironment. FiBL therefore studies what society requires of the Priority areas are animal feeding, herd/flock management, various functions of sustainable agriculture in Switzerland. arable farming, specialty crops and marketing. We work very closely with organic advisors in the cantons and there is an in- Efficient certification systems tensive exchange of experience. Organic certification is a relevant cost factor for actors involved in organic value chains. FiBL identifies approaches to efficient certification systems.

Communication Periodicals FiBL produces a number of periodicals through which it helps organic farmers, processors, advisors, interested consumers, stakeholders and policymakers to remain abreast of develop- ments in organic agriculture. Together with Bio Suisse, FiBL Extension publishes the monthly magazine “bioaktuell” in three lan- Advisory work guages. There is a long-standing partnership with the journal “Ökologie & Landbau”, which appears in Germany, Austria and Advisory services for organic agriculture in Switzerland are Switzerland. We produce the journal “Beiträge” for Demeter now well developed. FiBL has operated an extension service farmers in Switzerland as well as a newsletter for organic farm- since 1977, and since 1985 services operated by the cantonal ers in Zurich and Schaffhausen. authorities have offered advice on organic matters. Coopera- tion and division of tasks between cantonal advisory services Publications and FiBL’s extension service is very well organized. While the The FiBL Verlag publishing arm publishes a wide range of ma- cantonal offices deal mainly with the conversion to organic terials designed to facilitate the transfer of knowledge from methods on farms, FiBL advisors focus on special areas and research to advisory work and practice: data sheets, techni- bring their knowledge to bear country-wide. cal reviews, folders, CDs, manuals, conference papers etc. The Agricultural policy and the market require farming families to amount of work put into the educational and graphic quality display initiative and be confident in decision-making. Advi- varies according to the product. As a publisher FiBL attaches sory work may therefore address issues ranging from purely high priority to continuity and up-to-date information. technical production questions to whole-farm optimization and new business ventures. The high volume of regulation in Internet organic agriculture increases and complicates the need for In addition to its own website, FiBL develops and maintains advisory services. The principal methods used are telephone a number of websites (around 30 in total, see http://www.fibl. information, visits to individual farms and group advice ses- org/internet/angebote.php) dealing with FiBL-related activi- sions for farmers, processors and traders on technical aspects ties. These websites are developed jointly with FiBL Germany. of production and socio-economic issues. Research communication Training As an internationally recognized and experienced institution In collaboration with FiBL’s research arm, the advisory serv- in organic agricultural research, we make the contents and ice offers an attractive course programme. Some courses shed methods of our accumulated experience available in various light on the latest research results; others cover new trends in networks; we also collate and analyse the experiences of oth- agricultural policy, the markets, quality assurance or niche ers. The special features of organic agriculture, its systemic products. Working with Bio Suisse and Demeter, FiBL also approach, its trans-disciplinary research cooperation and its

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energetic involvement of actors from the entire “organic chain” Market development make this exchange of experience very fruitful. FiBL is actively The demand for organic products is growing unabated all over involved in websites and literature databases relating to organic the world. Local markets are emerging even in poorer devel- research; it takes part in national and international conferences oping countries. The market potential of organic agriculture and works on research strategies for the future. offers attractive development opportunities for producers Public awareness and exporters from developing and transition countries. The organic market requires a great deal of attention and special- The constantly increasing importance of organic agriculture is ist knowledge. Anyone who aims to market organic products accompanied by a growing need for information on the subject successfully must develop strategies for quality, regionality and and on FiBL. FiBL’s awareness-raising work reaches a broad au- fair trade and have knowledge of the potential of the organic dience. Activities include stands at fairs, an open day, the activ- market and of access conditions. ity report and wide-ranging media work. Priorities of the projects in developing countries are the de- Information hub and statistics on organic agriculture velopment of value chains and market initiatives, market re- There is also growth in the need for information on the current search, development of regional and international marketing state of organic farming in individual counties and worldwide strategies, linking of demand and supply, quality management, and on current trends and prospects. This information is re- and preparation for label recognition and certification. quired in particular by policymakers, associations and market players as a basis for their decisions. For people involved in Certification, standards and agricultural policy the media such information is indispensable. FiBL Switzerland Organic certification is the key to market access, but for small processes statistical data on agriculture and on the markets in farmers in developing countries it presents a major challenge. Switzerland, Europe and internationally. Every year FiBL pub- International certification procedures are unaffordable for lishes the book “The World of Organic Agriculture”. small farmers. Two alternatives are being implemented in vari- ous FiBL projects, primarily in eastern Europe and Asia; these involve the setting up of internal monitoring systems and the development of local certification programmes. Training and extension Development and cooperation Organic agriculture is knowledge-intensive at every stage. Suit- ably prepared and efficiently distributed information is essen- Sustainable production systems tial for producers, processors, trading companies, teachers, ad- Crucial to organic farming methods are the promotion of soil visors, researchers and official bodies. FiBL supports training fertility and biodiversity and sustainable land use based on lo- and advisory organizations, research institutions, NGOs and cally adapted cultivation techniques. The development of such other service providers in developing countries. Activities in- techniques presents a major challenge for many producers in clude collating, editing, distributing and networking specialist developing countries. In the tropics and sub-tropics there has knowledge, experience and research results, developing educa- as yet been very little research into practical solutions for or- tion and advisory tools, materials and documentation such as ganic agriculture and the integrated application of its princi- manuals, data sheets and Internet platforms, developing teach- ples. ing plans and training teachers, setting up competence centres The priority areas of our projects are the evaluation and devel- and advisory services, the direct provision of services such as opment of locally adapted technologies, and exploration of the conversion planning, and the provision of advice on specialist contribution of organic farming to food security, environmen- areas of organic farming. tal conservation and sustainable development. The projects fo- cus on practice-oriented on-farm research. Climate and resources The tropics and sub-tropics are greatly affected by global warming, in particular because of their greater dependence on irrigation, the soil’s lower buffer capacity and frequent lack of access to resource-saving technologies. On the international market, climate-neutral products are playing a more and more important role. People look to agriculture to provide renew- able energy and agricultural fuels – which are often labelled, completely inappropriately, as “biofuels”. Most of these energy products produce fuel from agricultural crops and compete with food for people. FiBL develops methods, evaluates value chains and researches genuine “biofuels” from the farm.

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