Article 4 Objectives

Organic production shall pursue the following general objectives:

1. (a)

   contributing to protection of the environment and the climate;

2. (b)

   maintaining the long-term fertility of soils;

3. (c)

   contributing to a high level of biodiversity;

4. (d)

   substantially contributing to a non-toxic environment;

5. (e)

   contributing to high animal welfare standards and, in particular, to meeting the species-specific behavioural needs of animals;

6. (f)

   encouraging short distribution channels and local production in the various areas of the Union;

7. (g)

   encouraging the preservation of rare and native breeds in danger of extinction;

8. (h)

   contributing to the development of the supply of plant genetic material adapted to the specific needs and objectives of organic agriculture;

9. (i)

   contributing to a high level of biodiversity, in particular by using diverse plant genetic material, such as organic heterogeneous material and organic varieties suitable for organic production;

10. (j)

    fostering the development of organic plant breeding activities in order to contribute to favourable economic perspectives of the organic sector.