Is organic greenhouse production of tomato in Scania feasible? Experiences and reflections according to Swedish growers in Scania.

Abstract: Is organic greenhouse production of tomato in Scania feasible? The main aim of the study is to assess the level of resource usage in the growth of tomatoes among growers in Scania County. The focus of the research is to assess the variation of different components in the greenhouse farming of tomatoes in the county. By understanding the use of energy, water, fertilizer, and pesticides, it is possible to determine the environmental sustainability of the practice and determine whether it can be improved in order to enhance outcomes for the growers, the economy, and consumers. The main reason for the poor performance of the agricultural sector is the increase in availability of tomatoes during the entire year. This is sometimes affected by the importation of tomatoes from Spain when the tomatoes Swedish season ends (IFAJ, 2012). Organic production of fruits and vegetables is considered to have a double benefit to the society because of the reduction in the environmental load and the fact that they do not have potentially harmful chemicals. Sustainable agriculture is an important aspect in ensuring environmental protection. There is low agreement on the universal definition of the issue. One of the most pertinent aspects of sustainability in food production is organic farming. Sustainability is associated with a system of farming and a philosophy, which has a focus on both ecological and social realities that affect people and the systems. For sustainable agriculture, farming has to involve systems and designs that are in concert with nature (Björk, 2003). The approaches used work with the natural processes in conserving the environment, resource, and minimizing waste. Organic agriculture takes advantage of the natural soil nutrients, pest control, water cycles, and energy flows. This study investigates the strength and weaknesses of conventional growing of tomato in Scania, the southernmost province of Sweden and the very nature of the difficulties which might arise if the conventional growing of the tomatoes will be substituted by the organic growing. In the case of Scania County, the demand for tomatoes has increased considerably and many are produced using conventional greenhouse technology. The findings indicate that many growers in County have positive perceptions about the effectiveness of organic farming, but they lack support from the government and adequate knowledge. They are significantly sceptical about aid from the Swedish government or the EU. They would be willing to shift to organic tomato farming with a commitment from the government in aiding the sector through technical professionals. Internal supervisor: Erkki Palmu External supervisors: Helena Ensegård, Laura Mustonen, Master Degree Project 30 hp in Applied climate strategy, 2015 CEC - Centre for Environmental and Climate Research Lund University Miljöbron Scania & Company Everfresh AB