Current articles

Fertilisers for organic farming

Fertilising crops is important, it is about providing nutrients to plants so that they can grow vigorously, develop healthily and give the farmer a good harvest. In organic farming, fertilisers of organic and mineral origin can be used to maintain soil fertility and yield. Organic fertilisers include all types of litter and non-litter manure, slurry, bird droppings, various types of compost, straw, green manure plants, ash, sawdust, peat and sapropel.

How to submit training documents to the LAD?

To apply for support, it is important for farmers to provide documents proving that they have completed a refresher course. If you have been issued with a training document (evidence of formal qualifications) after 1 January 2023, the document is valid for submission to the Rural Support Service (LAD).

Labelling of organic products

As consumers, how often do we look for and recognise organic products on the shelves? Do we recognise the green eco-leaflet on organic labels and understand the information provided?

Soil analysis for sustainable farming

Soil analyses are very important for organic farms as they help farmers understand the nutrient levels and health of their soil. Organic farming practices depend heavily on the health of the soil ecosystem to produce high quality crops. It is therefore important to ensure that the soil is rich in nutrients and has a balanced pH level to support plant growth and development.

Biodynamic farming: a sustainable farming approach

Biodynamic agriculture is a sustainable farming method based on a holistic approach to farming and animal husbandry, integrating ecological, social and economic aspects. This approach emphasises respect for natural cycles, the conservation of soil fertility and the promotion of biodiversity.

A knowledge-based approach to vocational education

SIA "Sertifikācijas un testēšanas centrs" offers quality training for professionals in various fields

Organic farming is becoming increasingly important in the context of sustainable and environmentally friendly farming. By acquiring knowledge and skills related to organic farming, farmers can not only improve the productivity and sustainability of their farms, but also gain competitiveness in the market.

Such training provides an in-depth understanding of the principles of organic farming, soil fertility maintenance, natural pest and disease control, as well as the requirements for certification and labelling of organic products. Participants have the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, share with other farmers and gain the practical skills needed for successful organic farming.

This knowledge not only helps to increase production efficiency, but also ensures compliance with the latest legislation and regulations, which is essential for those seeking European Union support in agriculture.

International School Feeding Day - 14 March. Call for healthy, sustainable and organic meals for all children in Europe. 

On International School Feeding Day, pupils and IFOAM Organics Europe and ICLEI Europe delegates to European decision-makers in Strasbourg, presented a call for healthy, sustainable and organic school meals and the integration of comprehensive food education in schools. Invited by Socialist and Democrat MEP Dario Nardella, a delegation of students from the Markgräfler Gymnasium (Germany) engaged in a lively discussion with key figures including the Mayor of Strasbourg, Jeanne Barseggiana, MEPs from all political parties, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Oliver Hansen, Christoph Auer Hansen. Várhelyi.

20 years of organic farming.

20 years ago SIA "Sertifikācijas un testēšanas centrs" (hereinafter - STC) launches a new field of activity - certification of organic farming enterprises At that time, the term "organic farming" was still little known, although interest in the green movement had already begun in the 1990s, when scientist Imants Heinackis gathered a group of like-minded people around him and, with the help of scientists and practitioners from Germany, Latvian farmers were introduced to the philosophy of biodynamic agriculture.