Denmark is home to some of the world's happiest people.
But their leadership in sustainability takes it further: the country tops Europe in organic farming and ranks as the world's biggest consumer of organic products.
Over 8% of Denmark's agricultural land is organically farmed—the highest share in Europe.
The Danish government is driving ambitious growth in organic output with targeted policies.
Denmark is challenging itself to become Europe's first nation with 100% organic farming.
The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries has unveiled a plan to double organic farmland by 2020, supported by more than €54 million in funding.
A flagship measure: supply 60% organic food in schools, daycares, ministries, hospitals, and more.
"To meet our world's most ambitious goals, the public sector must set the example," says Agriculture Minister Dan Jørgensen.
"Partnering with Organic Denmark—a coalition of farmers, companies, and consumers—we're ramping up collaboration across municipalities, regions, and ministries. This includes more organic meals in canteens, hospitals, and daycares."
The action plan calls for doubling organic land from 2007 levels by 2020—a cornerstone goal.
Denmark is leading by converting all state-owned land to organic or biodynamic methods.
Subsidies will aid farmers converting, plus financiers and innovators developing organic technologies and ideas.
This practical support counters the higher costs of organic versus conventional farming.
To hit these targets, measures include:
- €3.3 million to boost domestic organic sales in coming years.
- Streamlining national organic production regulations.
- Subsidies for farmers shifting to organic farming on public land.
- Nearly €8 million to help public institutions incorporate more organics.
- More organic meals in canteens, including the Ministry of Defense.
- Enhanced school curricula on organic farming and its benefits.
Strikingly, 97% of Danes recognize the organic logo, now 25 years old.
Organic products make up 8% of all food sold—a global record.
Denmark's journey to 100% organic is bold, with Bhutan also targeting it by 2020 despite its smaller scale.
Kudos to these trailblazers! France, your turn? :-)
