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VOL. 8, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Organic farming for sustainable agriculture: A systematic literature review of production practices, benefits and challenges
Authors
Dr. Hiren S Patel, Dr. Chetankumar J Lad, Dr. Nemik Shah, Jagruti Patel
Abstract
Organic farming has received increasing attention as a potential pathway
toward more sustainable agricultural production, yet evidence regarding its
environmental, productive, economic and social outcomes remains diverse. This
systematic literature review examines the major dimensions of organic farming
and their implications for sustainable agriculture. The review synthesizes 44
selected studies covering production practices and diversification, soil health
and carbon, biodiversity, yield and yield stability, environmental and
greenhouse-gas impacts, food quality, economic performance, farmer adoption,
food security, social sustainability and life-cycle assessment. The findings
indicate relatively consistent evidence of benefits associated with soil
biological activity, soil quality, biodiversity and selected environmental indicators.
However, productivity outcomes are more context dependent. Yield differences
between organic and conventional systems vary according to crop type, climate,
soil conditions, diversification and farm management. Economic viability is
similarly influenced by production costs, labour, certification, market
premiums and market access. The review also highlights the importance of farmer
knowledge, extension services, institutional support and appropriate market
infrastructure in facilitating adoption and long-term transition to organic
production. Evidence concerning food security and social sustainability remains
more heterogeneous and requires greater attention to local farming and
socioeconomic conditions. Overall, the review indicates that organic farming
should not be evaluated through a single indicator or certification status. Its
contribution to sustainable agriculture depends on the interaction of
ecological, productive, economic and institutional factors. Future research
should therefore adopt integrated, long-term and context-specific approaches
that combine environmental performance, productivity, economic viability and
social outcomes.
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Pages:549-561
How to cite this article:
Dr. Hiren S Patel, Dr. Chetankumar J Lad, Dr. Nemik Shah, Jagruti Patel "Organic farming for sustainable agriculture: A systematic literature review of production practices, benefits and challenges". International Journal of Agriculture and Plant Science, Vol 8, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 549-561
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