Organic agriculture and climate change—update after 15 years

Abstract In a review article published in this journal in 2010, we described the mitigation and adaptation potential of organic agricultural systems. In this article, we reflect on our findings and update the results from 2010. Today’s scientific evidence confirms that the principles of organic agriculture can facilitate a transition to climate-neutral food systems. Compliance with only mandatory requirements of organic certification is not sufficient for climate neutrality but can significantly offsets agricultural emissions by avoiding mineral fertilizers and increasing soil carbon sequestration. Most relevant to achieve climate neutrality of the food system is a shift toward more plant-based diets. Although behavioral change is more challenging to achieve, the principles of organic agriculture can positively trigger a climate-sensitive mind-shift of consumption and production patterns. Organic farming methods can also significantly contribute to climate adaptation in terms of better resilience under climatic variability and stress conditions. The all-encompassing systemic approach of organic agriculture indicates a viable path to food system resilience to climate change.