Discover groundbreaking studies and insights into organic farming, soil health, nutrient-dense food, and sustainable growing practices. Explore research led by OANZ and partners, showcasing the potential of organics to transform our food systems and support a healthier future for Aotearoa.

NZ Risks $20 Billion Export Loss from GMO Deregulation

[November 2024] A report commissioned by Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) warns that deregulating GMOs could slash New Zealand’s primary sector exports by $10–$20 billion annually, jeopardising the premium value of our GE-free status. The study, conducted by NZIER, highlights the need for thorough economic analysis before regulatory changes proceed.

This critical work was made possible thanks to the generous support of donors to our GE Free Future campaign. Together, we’re protecting New Zealand’s food sovereignty and economic future.

The Changing Global Trade Environment: Domestic Environmental and Climate Policy Impacts on the NZ – UK Free Trade Agreement. Implications for New Zealand’s Primary Sector Economy

[June 2024] OANZ, funded through Our Land Our Water National Science Challenges examines the impact of domestic environmental and climate policies on the NZ-UK Free Trade Agreement (NZ-UK FTA) and their implications for New Zealand’s primary sector economy. Key areas of focus include emissions reductions, soil and water quality, and biodiversity protection.

Kete Ora Trust - How Healthy Food Starts with Healthy Soil

[May 2024] New research highlighted the connection between farming systems, soil health, and nutrient-dense food. Commissioned by Kete Ora Trust, Plant & Food Research reviewed over 260 studies, revealing that biodynamic and organic systems promote greater soil life, enabling higher nutrient transfer to crops than conventional methods. While gaps in local research remain, this landmark study underscores the potential of regenerative farming to enhance food quality and human health in New Zealand.

This is just the beginning—future research will dive deeper into these practices.

Learn More about how healthy soil means healthier food for you and your whānau.

EU Green Deal: Impact on New Zealand’s Land-based Primary Producers

[May 2023] OANZ, partnering with Te Waka Kai Ora and funded through Our Land Our Water National Science Challenges explore the development of a primarily economic rationale for a transition to more environmentally responsible production processes, including organic production, in New Zealand's major export-oriented primary sectors.

Biological Husbandry Unit - Future Farming Centre

The information comprises a range of scientific research undertaken by the FFC and its partner research organisations; and extension and training materials covering all aspects of permanent, sustainable, non-chemical, organic and related agricultures and horticultures.

Rodale Institute

In addition to long-term trials, Rodale conducts ongoing experiments in a wide range of topics including organic pest management, livestock and crop integration, compost formulations, and more. 

Organic Eprints

Organic Eprints is an international open access archive for papers and projects related to research in organic food and farming. The archive contains full-text papers in electronic form together with bibliographic information, abstracts and other metadata. It also offers information on organisations, projects and facilities in the context of organic farming research.

Organic Farming Research Foundation

For close to three decades, OFRF has been at the forefront of the organic movement, awarding over $3M in research grants across the United States. As a result of OFRF’s research, education, and outreach efforts, thousands of farmers have received pertinent research and training information.

Organic Research Forum

The Organic Research Centre (ORC) is the UK’s leading independent research centre for the development of organic/agroecological food production and land management solutions to key global issues including climate change, soil and biodiversity conservation, and food security.

PASA Sustainable 

PASA is a Pennsylvania-based sustainable agriculture association founded in 1992. They work to build a more economically-just, environmentally-regenerative, and community-focused food system through education and research that directly supports farmers.