45 years of proof: organic better for soil
5 June 2025
The DOK trial, a unique Swiss long-term study that has been running since 1978, has provided compelling evidence of the benefits of organic and biodynamic farming for decades.
The comparative study looks at the effects of conventional, organic (BIOORG) and biodynamic (BIODYN) cropping systems on soil health, biodiversity and climate impact.
Key findings:
- Soil fertility: Organic systems - and biodynamic ones in particular - contain more soil organic matter, which improves soil structure and fertility.
- Biodiversity: On organic plots, soil life is demonstrably richer and more active, with a greater diversity of micro-organisms.
- Climate impact: As no artificial fertilisers are used, greenhouse gas emissions per hectare are significantly lower.
These results underline the value of organic and biodynamic farming systems as future-oriented solutions for healthy soil and sustainable food production.