History and Development of Organic Agriculture: Aya Town's Approach

History and Development of Organic Agriculture: Aya Town's Approach

**Beginnings of organic farming and the formation of its foundation (1970s-1980s)**
Aya Town, Higashimorogata-gun, Miyazaki Prefecture, established facilities to convert human waste into liquid fertilizer in 1978 and livestock manure into compost in 1981, thus laying the groundwork for both environmental conservation and agricultural promotion; in 1987, it built a plant to convert food waste into compost and promoted pesticide-free and low-chemical farming; in 1988, it enacted Japan's first "Natural Ecosystem In 1988, the city enacted the nation's first "Natural Ecosystem Agriculture Promotion Ordinance," demonstrating its commitment to organic agriculture throughout the region.

**Efforts and Evaluations in the 1990s**.
As of 1996, efforts to utilize composting facilities continued, and measures to add value to agricultural products through pesticide-free farming were underway. Through its unique agricultural product ranking system, the town became a model region for organic agriculture, attracting attention both domestically and internationally. During this period, Aya Town's efforts influenced other municipalities, and it was recognized as a pioneer in sustainable agriculture.

**Current Status and Development in the 2020s**.
In the 2020s, Aya Town declared itself an "Organic Village" with the aim of further developing organic agriculture. The following numerical targets have been set and efforts are being strengthened:

- **Expansion of organic farming area (open-air vegetables)**: Increase from 20 hectares in FY2020 to 23 hectares in FY2027.
- **Sales volume of organic produce**: Increase from 449762 kg in FY2020 to 517220 kg in FY2027.
- **Number of organic farmers**: Increase from 11 in FY2020 to 14 in FY2027.

The establishment of the AYA Organic School provides education and training in organic farming for new farmers, as well as support facilities for farmers and housing assistance. The introduction of local organic produce into school lunch programs and the development of new products in collaboration with food processing businesses are also underway.

**Sustainable Agriculture and the Future of the Region**.
Aya Town continues to promote environmentally friendly agriculture that utilizes natural ecosystems and reduces the environmental impact derived from agricultural production. Through these efforts, Aya Town has established itself as a leader in organic agriculture and has achieved both a revitalization of the local economy and sustainable agriculture. The town's efforts have also become an important reference case for agricultural policies in Japan and abroad.

The history of organic farming in Aya Town goes beyond mere regional development and continues to serve as a model case for the realization of a society that coexists in harmony with the environment.