The proposed strategy for the development of organic farming and the action plan for the organic production in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, whose consultation period has already ended, registered about a dozen from various entities.
 
During the 60-day public consultation period, individuals and collective entities from several islands submitted valid and highly pertinent contributions, which are now under analysis.
 
The strategic proposal, submitted to the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry on March 28, was prepared by a working group that included technicians and members of BioAzórica Cooperative (Terceira Island) and TryBio (Faial) under the coordination of David Horta, professor at the University of the Azores.
 
In April, the public presentation of the proposal took place at the premises of São Miguel Agrarian Development Services, being highly participated.
 
The proposed strategy and action plan are designed for a 10-year period and comprises five strategic goals: promoting the expansion of organic production areas; increasing production and, consequently, the supply of organic agricultural and agri-food products; promoting technical/scientific knowledge; disseminating business innovation and provision of statistical information; strengthening confidence and credibility of these products among consumers.
 
For the Regional Government, the Azores cannot remain on the sidelines of a growing global trend towards organic production, which provide a positive contribution to the environment, public health and food safety.
 
The Azores are already developing projects in organic farming, more specifically in the areas of horticulture and meat production, in addition to pilot project for milk production.