Is eating organic food better for the environment?

Q:

A: In general, yes. In order to farm organically, the farmer needs to make sure that the soil remains healthy. Intensive chemical farming (the alternative) does not need to worry so much about the soil itself, or about the environment. Organic farming also releases less toxic chemicals into the environment. "Organic farming helps provide a safer, more healthy environment by: 1) not polluting our groundwater, rivers, lakes, and oceans with pesticides and chemical fertilizers; 2) reducing soil erosion; 3) improving soil quality; 4) increasing the diversity of wildlife on and near farms; and 5) providing safer working conditions for farm laborers (no exposure to pesticides)." (Small Planet Foods) However, it can be argued that *just* eating organic food, without also becoming vegetarian, is an exercise in futility. "Organic crop farming cannot support conventional meat and dairy production, nor can it support the production of organic animal products. Substituting organic animal products for conventional ones, without a drastic reduction in consumption, clearly is not a reasonable large-scale plan." (Vegetarian Site) Personally, I would think that even a small step is a good step. Eating organic fruits, vegetables and animal products (if you're not vegan) is also healthier *for* you, as it reduces your exposure to pesticides and other poisons.

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