Sweden: Organic potatoes have saved pesticides and carbon dioxide

This is thanks to the fact that organic farming takes place without the use of unnatural pesticides and artificial fertilizers.

— KRAV-labeled products not only provide hope for a greener future, but also measurable results. All residents of Örebro County who purchase KRAV-labeled products contribute to promoting biodiversity and reducing climate impact while giving animals the opportunity to live their natural lives , says Emma Rung, CEO of the sustainability label KRAV.

In connection with its 40th anniversary, KRAV has produced a report that shows how much impact organic production has had on society since the association was founded. It shows, among other things, that a consumer who has chosen organic potatoes since 1985 has saved nature almost 100 liters of pesticides, as they are not used in organic farming.

For the residents of Örebro County, this means a saving of 870,000 liters of pesticides; in total, the Swedes have saved almost 30 million liters.

At the same time, those who have made an organic potato choice have reduced emissions by as much as a flight to Thailand, by not using artificial fertilizers in the cultivation. For everyone in Örebro County who has made the choice, the reduction corresponds to 860 tons of carbon dioxide.

For all Swedes, the reduction is 30,000 tons of carbon dioxide, as much as the annual emissions from around 20,000 cars. 

— The potato here is an example of how important small choices in everyday life are. But there are even greater effects when you choose organic meat and dairy products. Compared to potatoes, calculated per kilo, it takes a full 35 times more artificial fertilizer to produce conventional beef , says Emma Rung.

KRAV’s rules mean more than just organic production. They also set extra tough requirements for biodiversity, good animal welfare and better working conditions. The label also requires reduced climate impact by requiring all KRAV-certified producers to use only renewable electricity and cultivation methods that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

— When we sum up these 40 years, we see what a difference it is possible to make, but we also see how much remains. The climate crisis and the threat to biodiversity are becoming increasingly tangible and it is up to us, together, to contribute to something better. Now we need to roll up our sleeves to achieve the vision of a more sustainable future , says Emma Rung.