Ukraine: Organic farming to combat unemployment and rural exodus
Rising costs and falling revenue are forcing poor Ukrainian farmers to leave the land for the cities. SDC's 'Eco-Lan' project is encouraging organic farming because organic produce commands a higher price in the shops and because it opens up alternative sources of income for farmers.
Back in Soviet times, Ukraine was a major exporter of agricultural products, but now its farming is in crisis. Most farmers are working with antiquated machinery and implements, and seed and fertilizer prices are rising steadily. Falling income and the lack of prospects are driving many country dwellers to the cities.
