Thursday, March 6, 2008

Limited Organic Air Freighting

"Following an extensive first round consultation on the issue of air freight – lasting 4 months, receiving nearly 400 responses from the public, NGOs, industry, government and international agencies plus meetings with 100 organisations – the Soil Association’s Standards Board [1] recommended that the organisation’s standards should be changed so that organic produce can only be air-freighted if it also meets the Soil Association’s own Ethical Trade or the Fairtrade Foundation’s standard. [2]

A second round of consultation launched today (6 March), in accordance with best practice, gives people the opportunity to comment on the implementation of this recommendation and provides an opportunity to ensure it is practical and fit for purpose. [3]

Anna Bradley, chair of the Soil Association’s Standards Board said,
“This has proved to be a powerful and positive process – ensuring the best outcome for people and planet. This second stage of consultation gives the opportunity for people, especially affected licensees, to comment on our proposal, ensuring the final published standard is workable and effective."


Read the article