The Contribution of Organic Agriculture to Ecological Sustainability: Global Experience and the Azerbaijani Context

Abstract

In the context of accelerating climate change, organic agriculture has gained increasing importance as an alternative production model that enhances ecosystem resilience, restores soil biological functions, and promotes the efficient use of natural resources. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the adaptation and mitigation potential of organic farming systems in response to climate change and to identify the possibilities for applying international best practices within the agroecological conditions of Azerbaijan. The research employs a comparative analytical approach, including the review of policy documents and a systematic analysis of contemporary scientific literature.

The findings indicate that organic farming systems demonstrate higher levels of carbon sequestration, improved soil structure, greater water retention capacity, and increased microbiological diversity compared to conventional agricultural systems. These characteristics contribute significantly to the resilience of agroecosystems against climate-related stresses such as drought, temperature extremes, and soil degradation. International experience, particularly from the European Union and global sustainability initiatives, confirms that organic agriculture plays an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, preventing land degradation, and supporting long-term agricultural sustainability.

In the Azerbaijani context, favorable natural soil fertility, diverse agroecological zones, and growing demand for environmentally friendly products create strong potential for the development of organic agriculture. However, the effective realization of this potential requires improvements in the legal and regulatory framework, simplification of certification procedures, and the expansion of farmer education and advisory services. Overall, the study demonstrates that organic agriculture can serve as a strategic tool for enhancing ecological sustainability and climate resilience in Azerbaijan’s agricultural sector.