Understanding KRAV’s Approach to Soil Health on Certified Farms

Abstract: Organic labeling organizations like KRAV have an important role to play in affecting consumer purchasing decisions as well as producer crop cultivation behaviours. With soil health becoming an ever increasing concern, and soil so central to the catalysing cycles of carbon, nutrients, and energy in the ecosphere, sustainable development could benefit from understanding better the relationship of organic labelling organizations to soil. This thesis explores that relationship through a review of relevant literature including the guidelines for KRAV certification 2019-2020, as well as interviews with former KRAV employees and a current KRAV certified farmer. Therewith, this research investigates this complex interplay of relevant actors - consumer, farmer, certification body, and standard holder- to elucidate KRAV’s approach to soil health. Whereas some environmentalists might argue for stricter guidelines and more holistic testing, the participants in this study presented a firm case for the difficulty of implementing further soil testing. This study is best understood to be an initial and exploratory investigation into a topic that requires more attention to draw firm conclusions from in the future. In future studies, it may be beneficial to cross-compare practices and mentalities of people involved in organic certified production from different labels.