Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part A (2023)

This paper conducts a comprehensive comparative analysis of biodynamic agriculture and organic farming to delineate their principles, practices, and impacts on environmental sustainability, economic viability, and social equity. Through a systematic review of existing literature and case studies, this study identifies the foundational principles underlying each farming practice, evaluates their methodologies, and assesses their outcomes in terms of soil health, biodiversity, yield, and farmer livelihoods. Biodynamic agriculture, rooted in Rudolf Steiner’s anthroposophical principles, incorporates cosmic and lunar cycles in its practices, emphasizing spiritual and ecological connections. Organic farming, focusing on the avoidance of synthetic chemicals and GMOs, promotes biodiversity and ecological balance. Our findings suggest that while both practices aim to enhance environmental sustainability and produce high-quality food, they differ in philosophical underpinnings, regulatory standards, and implementation strategies. This analysis contributes to a nuanced understanding of sustainable agriculture's varied approaches, offering insights for farmers, policymakers, and researchers striving to optimize ecological and socio-economic benefits in agriculture.