Bio Suisse: a Standard That Goes Beyond European Organic Certification
Meeting European organic farming legislation, Regulation (EU) 2018/848, is not enough to obtain this certification: it is only the minimum starting requirement.
Whole-farm organic management
The entire farm must be managed according to organic farming principles. Partially organic production is not permitted.
Active promotion of biodiversity
At least 7% of the utilised agricultural area must be allocated to areas dedicated to promoting biodiversity.
Stricter restrictions on plant protection products
Additional restrictions apply, particularly to the use of copper-based products.
Responsible water management
Specific requirements also apply to water management and soil protection, with particular attention paid to crop rotation.
With Bio Suisse certification, the protection of soil, water and biodiversity becomes an integral part of the production process. It is a practical approach that puts into action the goals of World Nature Conservation Day, celebrated on 28 July.
Bio Suisse vs EU Organic: the Main Differences
| Aspec | EU Organic – Regulation (EU) 2018/848 | Bio Suisse |
|---|---|---|
| Farm management | Mixed farms are permitted, provided that organic, in-conversion and conventional production units are kept separate | No exceptions: the entire farm must be managed organically |
| Biodiversity | No mandatory percentage of land must be dedicated to biodiversity | At least 7% of the utilised agricultural area, plus 12 additional measures selected from a dedicated catalogue |
| Plant protection products | Synthetic chemical products are prohibited; only substances included in the EU-approved list may be used | Additional restrictions apply, particularly to copper; organic herbicides are prohibited |
| Water management | No specific requirements | Rules apply to the sustainable use of water for products supplied from outside Switzerland |
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A Healthy Environment Is the Foundation of a Stable Society
The resources we depend on every day
Water
Air
Soil
Trees
Animals
Food
According to WWF, however, human pressure on the planet has steadily increased since 1970. Annual demand for natural resources has exceeded the Earth’s capacity to regenerate them, reaching a 50% ecological deficit in 2008.
This is a particularly important issue for farmers, whose livelihoods depend directly on healthy and functioning ecosystems.
Italy’s Natural Heritage: Richness and Vulnerability
Biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation have a direct impact on the availability of water and fertile soil. As a result, they place crop productivity and quality, as well as the economic sustainability of the entire agri-food supply chain, at risk.
Conservation: a Concept That Also Applies to the Way We Produce
The Italian verb conservare, meaning “to conserve”, derives from the Latin prefix con-, used as an intensifier, and servare, meaning to preserve, protect or maintain. Its original meaning can therefore be understood as “to protect together”.
When applied to nature, conservation means adopting practical strategies: protecting endangered species, restoring damaged ecosystems, managing resources responsibly and promoting a culture that prevents or limits the environmental impact of human activities.
All APOD Certifications
Discover the standards that guide the way we produce.
SQNPI Certification
Organic farming is not simply about avoiding chemical inputs. Its purpose is also to protect the natural balance on which agricultural production depends.
Pollinating insects play an essential role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting crop productivity.
Discover the importance of bees and other pollinators in agriculture, and how SQNPI certification contributes to their protection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bio Suisse Certification
What is Bio Suisse certification?
What is the difference between organic certification and Bio Suisse?
Why has APOD chosen Bio Suisse certification?
APOD has chosen to adopt Bio Suisse standards to promote an agricultural model that combines quality, biodiversity protection, soil health and the responsible use of natural resources.
