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ANALYSIS OF ORGANIC AGRARIAN ACTIVITY IN GREECE

GREENFOOD PROJECT 2010-1-ES1-LEO05-20948

Contents:

1. Introduction ........................................................................................... 3 2. The organic farming in Greece: ................................................................ 4 2.1. Definition and Principles of Organic farming.......................................... 4 2.2. Logo and labelling of Organic Farming ................................................. 4 2.3. History and development of Organic farming in Greece .......................... 6 2.4. General economic data ...................................................................... 7 2.5. Organic farmers profile ................................................................... 22 2.6. Current problems and perspectives of development ............................. 23 3. Farming and training ............................................................................. 26 3.1. Current situation ............................................................................. 26 3.2. VET in organic farming .................................................................... 28 3.3. Training access barriers for farmers .................................................. 29 4. E-learning and organic farming: present and future. ................................. 30 4.1. National policies for supporting adult education and lifelong learning ..... 30 4.2. National policies for fostering Web-based vocational education ............. 31 4.3. Involved institutions foundations on Web-based vocational education . 31 5. Glossary .............................................................................................. 33 6. Bibliography and documentation. ............................................................ 37

1. Introduction

The growing awareness of people about environmental protection in combination with the requirement of a large portion of consumers for the production of healthy food free from pesticides and toxic substances, have created the basic conditions for the dissemination of organic farming. So, as the demand for organic products is growing a major commercial distribution is beginning to develop at European level. The interest for this production system is becoming more intense and organic farming is now a new reality. The European Union in order to ensure the authenticity of organic production and labeling of a corresponding product as "organic", adopted the Regulation 2092/91 on organic production of agricultural products and indications for products and foodstuffs. The environmental policy of E.U. has "embraced" this area of agriculture by establishing incentives for further spreading. For this reason, clearly includes the concept and the meaning of organic agriculture in Regulation 2078/92 which provides funds for farmers who decide to apply the principles of organic farming in order to make the farmer in addition to producer and a conscientious, reputable and concerned citizen to environmental issues. In Greece, organic farming is a challenge. The mild weather conditions, the low level agrochemical pollution and the small size family-farms, promote the production of organic products with good organoleptic properties. The organic farming and organic animal husbandry means a comprehensive proposal for ecological production, according to which the factors that determine the quality and the quantity of products treated as a whole. This system respects the nature and tries to work with it. What should be noted is the fact that the adoption of this alternative view of agricultural production, presuppose also the formation of a deep ecological consciousness on the part of producers and efforts to change the pattern of consumption that followed today which focuses mainly on the appearance of the product consumed and less in quality.

2. The organic farming in Greece: 2.1. Definition and Principles of Organic farming The definition that could be given to organic farming is that it is a management and production system of agricultural products based on natural processes, no use of chemical fertilizers and synthetic pesticides and on alternative methods of treating pests, diseases and weeds, and the use of production techniques such as crop rotation and the recycling plant and animal residues that maintain the natural balance and fertility of the soil. In March 2008 the World Board approved the following definition according to IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements): Organic agriculture is a production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems and people. It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than the use of inputs with adverse effects. Organic agriculture combines tradition, innovation and science to benefit the shared environment and promote fair relationships and a good quality of life for all involved. Furthermore according to this worldwide umbrella organization for the Organic movement the organic farming is based on the following principles: The principle of health: Organic Agriculture should sustain and enhance the health of soil, plant, animal, human and planet as one and indivisible. The principle of ecology: Organic Agriculture should be based on living ecological systems and cycles, work with them, emulate them and help sustain them. The principle of fairness: Organic Agriculture should build on relationships that ensure fairness with regard to the common environment and life opportunities. The principle of care: Organic Agriculture should be managed in a precautionary and responsible manner to protect the health and well-being of current and future generations and the environment. 2.2. Logo and labelling of Organic Farming Organic products can be identified by signs bearing on their markings (labels) and the Product Certificate accompanying them. For labeling and promotion advertising of organic products should be included the following information gradually from 1st of July 2010 to 1st of July 2012: The new EU organic farming logo 4

The new approval code of the Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization, next to the EU logo The phrase "PRODUCT OF ORGANIC AGRICULTURE" in combination with the trade name of the product. The phrase "PRODUCT OF ORGANIC AGRICULTURE UNDER CONVERTION" only for products of crop production that their cultivation is in a conversion period in combination with the trade name of the product. The origin of the ingredients of the product (e.g. EU Agriculture, non-EU Agriculture or the country of origin), under the new European code of the Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization For manufactured products the phrase X% of the agricultural ingredients are organic if only the percentage of components of organic origin is at least 70% and the other ingredients are those allowed by EU legislation.

Figure 1: EU Organic Farming Logo

New obligations

Figure 2: Organic Farming Label till 01/07/2010

Figure 3: Organic Farming Label after 01/07/2010

The Product Certificate is obligatory to include: Name of the Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization (e.g. BioHellas) Name, address and code number of the enterprise that trades the product Enterprises activity (e.g. trading) The enterprises trader certificated products and their stage (e.g. organic or transitional stage) Period of validity of the Certificate, with particular emphasize to the expiration date.

Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization

Info data and activity of the Enterprise

List of the certificated products

Period of validity of the Certificate (Start and Expiration date)

Figure 4: Organic Product Certificate, Source BioHEllas

2.3. History and development of Organic farming in Greece Organic farming in Greece began during at time when regulations national or Europeandid not exist. The first organic production in Greece began in 1982 in Aigialeia when a small group of local farmers began the production of organic Corinthian grapes with the intent to export them to Holland. Though the odds 6

were against them and it was certainly not easy in the beginning, the efforts of this small group of farmers proved successful. The organic farming project of the E.A.S. Aigialeias (Union of Agricultural Cooperatives) is still active, with over 500 producers involved in the farming of grapes, olives, and citrus fruits. The first organic olive production began in Mani (Peloponnese) in the mid-1990s. There is no official data on organic agriculture for the period from 1982 to 1992. According to estimates, there were about 150 producers cultivating a total area of 200 hectares. EU Regulation 2092/91 brought about a major change. Many farmers officially converted their farms to organic agriculture. A second expansion took place after the introduction of hectare subsidies in 1996 with the adoption of the EU-Regulation 2078/92. Organic agriculture has rapidly expanded since its official establishment, with annual growth rates of between 50% and 120%. In 1999, both the share of organically utilized area as well as the number of organic farmers reached 0.5% of the overall country total. 2.4. General economic data For the presentation of the situation in Greece regarding to organic farming, as the reference year was taken 2009. During the survey found that the official bodies and institutions of the country which could provide information (e.g. OPEGEP, YPAAT, Hellenic Statistical Authority) didnt have available data for 2009 regarding in crop type per prefecture, but only in summary. Therefore, from these institutions gathered only the necessary data (e.g. total area of organic farming, number of organic farmers) for an overview of the country. For a more detailed description of organic farming in Greece (e.g. type and area of organic farming by prefecture) the data collected by the Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organizations. Of course, as it was expected, it was almost impossible to collect all information from all organizations. Thus, the C.V.T. Georgiki Anaptixi team came in contact with most of them (DIO NET, BIOHELLAS S.A., QWAYS S.A., A-CERT S.A. and TUV HELLAS) and collected the data according to which shows the distribution of organic land per product and per prefecture. The collected data represent the 56.8% of the Greek organic farming. On this basis of the above data elaborated a study by the C.V.T. Georgiki Anaptixi team according to which determined the approximate overview of the country. The development of organic farming in Greece between 1993 and 2009 is presented in the table below.

Year 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 20031 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Organic Cultivated area (Ha) 700 1.188,2 2.400,9 5.296,4 9.999,5 15.401,9 21.451,2 26.707,0 31.118,2 29.255,7 244.457,3 249.508,1 288.737,2 302.264,4 279.895,1 317.824,3 326.252,0

Variation % 90,8 46,8 52,1 112,5 88,0 18,5 11,9 25,0 -8,1 2,91 2,98 3,46 3,64 3,38 3,84 3,94

Table 1: Development of Organic Farming in Greece


Source: OPEGEP (1993 2002), YPAAT (2003 2007), Eurostat (2008 2009)2

As it is shown in the Table 1in 1993 the cultivated hectares with organic methods was 700 and in 2002 they reached to reach29.255,7 Ha. The significant increase in organic farming from 1996 onwards due to the implementation of Regulation (EEC) 2078/92. This regulation provides financial support to organic farmers through area grants from the EU so the incentive would lead them to an almost doubling of organic farmland in one single year (1996 1997).

From 2003 onwards in organic area calculated the pastures too, which didnt happen from 1993 to 2002. Until 2002 the statistic data on organic farming are coming from OPEGEP (Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization), which is an established body responsible for the implementation of national policy on quality in agriculture. From 2003 2007, these figures are coming from the Greek Ministry of RuralDevelopment and Food (YPAAT) and from 2008 2009 the datas are coming from Eurostat, as there no published information on the Greek Ministry.
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Figure 5: The development of the Organic cultivated area in Greece (1993-2002)

From 2003 onwards in organic area calculated the pastures too, which didnt happen from 1993 to 2002. So, for this reason the statistics data are represented in separate graphics.

Figure 6: The development of the Organic cultivated area in Greece (2003-2009)

To the following table is represented the number of organic farmers in Greece from 1993 to 2009. Year 1993 1994 Organic Farmers 250 477 9

Year 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Organic Farmers 700 1.065 2.263 4.254 5.042 5.613 6.680 6.299 6.642 9.002 14.614 23.900 23.769 24.057 24.057

Table 2: Development of Organic Farmers in Greece


Source: OPEGEP (1993 2000), Eurostat (2000 2009)

Regarding the number of organic farmers in Greece during 2009 amounted to 24.057 compared to just 250 in 1993. The largest increase happened in 1997 compared to 1996, that the number of organic farmers was more than doubled.

Figure 7: Development of Organic farmers in Greece

Dividing the total organic farmland with the number of organic farmers, the average size of farm grown in an organically way in Greece in 2009 is about 13,56 Ha. 10

In Greece as shown in the table and figure below, the highest percentage of organic areas is concentrated in the cultivation of olive, fodder crops and cereals. Type of cultivation Cereals Industrial crops Fresh vegetables Fodder Other Permanent grazings Top fruit (excl. citrus, rapes,olives) Citrus fruit Grapes Olives Other perennial cultivations Fallow Farming Area (Ha) 38.270,97 6.431,80 3.800,87 45.914,80 9,70 154.778,83 2.488,07 2.135,50 7.774,00 60.146,33 1.176,60 3.324,53 Percentage (%) 11,69% 1,97% 1,16% 14,03% 0,003% 47,60% 0,76% 0,65% 2,38% 18,38% 0,36% 1,02%

Table 3: Organic Cultivations in Greece,


Source: DIO NET, BIO-HELLAS S.A., QWAYS S.A., A-CERT S.A. and TUV HELLAS

Figure 8: Breakdown percentage of Organic cultivations in Greece

More specifically, the cultivation of olive (18,38%) takes the first place of the organic cultivated areas, followed by fodder crops (14,03%) and cereals (11,69%). On the other hand, the last place takes other perennial cultivations (e.g. ornamentals) (0,36%) and fruit trees excluding citrus, grapes and olives (0,76%). 11

These specific percentages come from the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food as they are compiled by OPEGEP and grouped by the responsible Office for Organic Farming. The table below shows the organic cultivation area per Governmental Region. The first place occupied by the Region of Kentriki Macedonia (29,28%) followed by the Region of Peloponnisos (13,62%) and the last position occupied by the Region of Notio Egaio (0,28%). Organic Area (%) 29,28% 13,62% 13,48% 10,12% 7,86% 6,56% 6,08% 5,94% 3,58% 1,46% 0,92% 0,83% 0,28%

Governmental Region of KENTRIKI MACEDONIA PELOPONNISOS THESSALY VORIO EGAIO ANATOLIKI MACEDONIA-THRAKI STEREA ELLADA DITIKI ELLADA CRETE DITIKI MACEDONIA ATTIKI EPIRUS IONIA NISIA NOTIO EGAIO

Table 4: Organic area in Greece per Governmental Region,


Source: DIO NET, BIO-HELLAS S.A., QWAYS S.A., A-CERT S.A. and TUV HELLAS

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Figure 9: Total organic area of Greece per Governemental Region

The following tables present the division of organic area of each Governmental Region to the equivalent Prefectures and the graphics shows the distribution of organic area to each Prefecture. Region of Attiki, involves only one Prefecture.

REGION OF ANATOLIKI MACEDONIA-THRAKI 7,86% PREFECTURES EVROS DRAMA KAVALA XANTHI RODOPI 71,16% 9,11% 1,33% 4,14% 14,26%

Figure 10: Total organic area of Region of Anatoliki Macedonia Thraki

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REGION OF KENTRIKI MACEDONIA IMATHIA THESSALONIKI PREFECTURES KILKIS PELLA PIERIA SERRES CHALKIDIKI

29,28% 1,45% 42,47% 26,01% 2,92% 0,51% 10,10% 16,54%

Figure 11: Total organic area of Region of Kentriki Macedonia

REGION OF DITIKI MACEDONIA PREFECTUR ES GREVENA KASTORIA KOZANI FLORINA

3,58% 30,68% 17,28% 39,74% 12,30%

Figure 12: Total organic area of Region of Ditiki Macedonia

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REGION OF EPIRUS PREFECTUR ES ARTA THESPROTIA IOANNINA PREVESA

0,92% 9,30% 32,75% 48,15% 9,80%

Figure 13: Total organic area of Region of Epirus

REGION OF THESSALY PREFECTUR ES KARDITSA LARISA MAGNESIA TRIKALA

13,48% 5,59% 41,81% 47,03% 5,57%

Figure 14: Total organic area of Region of Thessaly

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REGION OF IONIA NISIA PREFECTUR ES ZAKINTHOS KERKIRA KEFALONIA LEFKADA

0,83% 62,75% 8,12% 29,12% 0,00%

Figure 15: Total organic area of Region of Ionia Nisia

REGION OF DITIKI ELLADA PREFECT URES AITOLOAKARNANIAS ACHAIAS ELIAS

6,08% 40,88% 40,74% 18,38%

Figure 16: Total organic area of Region of Ionia Nisia

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REGION OF STEREA ELLADA PREFECTURES VIOTIA EVIA EVRITANIA FTHIOTIDA FOKIDA

6,56% 18,00% 13,73% 0,10% 59,96% 8,20%

Figure 17: Total organic area of Region of Sterea Ellada

PREFECTURES

REGION OF PELOPONNISOS ARGOLIDA ARKADIA KORINTHIA LAKONIA MESSINIA

13,62% 10,83% 10,11% 22,19% 32,97% 23,90%

Figure 18: Total organic area of Region of Peloponnisos

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Figure 19: Total organic area of Region of Vorio Egaio

REGION OF NOTIO EGAIO PREFEC TURES DODEKANISA KIKLADES

PREFEC TURES

REGION OF VORIO EGAIO LESVOS SAMOS CHIOS

10,12% 86,11% 13,09% 0,80%

0,28% 27,07% 72,93%

Figure 20: Total organic area of Region of Notio Egaio

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PREFECTU RES

REGION OF CRETE HERAKLIO LASITHI RETHIMNO CHANIA

5,94% 41,85% 9,66% 27,46% 21,04%

Figure 21: Total organic area of Region of Crete

The production rules and control measures for organic farming products are determined by national and EU legislation which is as follows: Commission Regulation (EU) No 834/2007: on organic production and labeling of organic products and repealing Regulation (EEC) No 2092/91. Commission Regulation (EU) No 889/2008: laying down detailed rules for the implementation of Council Regulation (EC) No 834/2007 on organic production and labeling of organic products with regard to organic production, labeling and control. Commission Regulation (EU) No 1235/2008: laying down detailed rules for implementation of Council Regulation (EC) No 834/2007 as regards the arrangements for imports of organic products from third countries. Commission Regulation (EU) No 271/2010: amending Regulation (EC) No 889/2008 laying down detailed rules for the implementation of Council Regulation (EC) No 834/2007, as regards the organic production logo of the European Union. Joint Ministerial Decision No 245090/06: setting additional measures for the implementation of Community Legislation. Ministerial Decision No 273234/17-10-03: The definition of additional measures to determine the origin of the meat produced in accordance with Regulation (EEC) 2092/91 of the Council as amended and in force. 19

Circular No 217002/27-2-2004 of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food: Creating a database of propagating material produced in an organic way as provided in the Regulation No 1452/2003/EU and the procedures of exemption as provided by Article 6 paragraph 3 of Regulation 2092/91/EEC. Ministerial Decision No 336650/22-12-06: detailed determination of the Joint Ministerial No 245090/06. Regulation for the Evaluation and Supervision of the Control and Certification System of organic farming from Agrocert OPEGEP (Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization).

In Greece has established a system of monitoring and certification, which is supervised by the Ministry of Rural Development and Food with the appropriate Office of Organic Agriculture and the role for the supervision has entrusted to the Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization (OPEGEP) AGROCERT. The Greek bodies that can certify Organic Agricultural products are the following:

DIO NET

BIO-HELLAS S.A.

QWAYS S.A.

A-CERT S.A.

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IRIS

GREEN CONTROL

GMCERT

QMS-CERT

TUV HELLAS

FILIKI CERT S.A.

A producer in order to join to the Control and Certification System of organic products initially has to select the Certification Organization for Organic products and after that he/she has to: submit to the Organization an application form accompanied by a statutory declaration in which will be bound for the law enforcement sign a cooperation Convention with the Certification Organization inform the beginning of the activity on organic farming within 10 (ten) days of signing the Convention, to the Office of Rural Development of the Prefecture of the administrative boundaries of which the farm is allocated

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Important role in increasing organic farming in Greece played the European policy to strength and promote organic farming and the financial support which is given for the production of organic products. The financial subsidy for 2006 could reach 9 Euro per Hectare in crop production and enhanced organic and rearing cows, sheep and swine. The Programme of Community aid, as it is applied by the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food is for five years. The Greek state recognizing the needed work and care for organic farming and aiming to turn more and more farmers to organic production, in addition to the normal subsidy received per year, strengthens further their finances. According to the latest proclamation of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food the additional amounts of funding to organic farmers were as follows: Type of cultivation Oil Olives Table Olives Crocus Sativus (Saffran) Grapes Apple trees, stone fruits Nuts (chestnuts, hazelnuts, walnuts etc) Total citrus fruit Vegetables, melons, water melons, asparagus, soft fruits (Strawberry, Raspberry, Blackberry, Currants, Gooseberry, Blueberry, Elder, etc.) Watering arable cultivations Cereals, dry farming Aromatic pharmaceutical plants Additional amount of funding (/) 7,22 9,00 9,00 9,00 9,00 4,00 9,00

6,00

6,00 3,35 3,35

Table 5: Additional amounts of funding for Organic Farmers


Source: YPAAT, 2006

2.5. Organic farmers profile The occupational profile of the Greek organic farmer obtain by taking into account factors such as gender, age, marital status and the fact whether the profession of organic farmer is its primarily profession or not. Regarding to the age the organic farmers in Greece is between 35 to 45 years old, around 72%. This is due to the fact that young people are more receptive to innovations. The average age of all producers is 42 years.

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Organic farmers are men and women. However, the majority are men 80% comparing to women, only 20%. This is an expected result, as farming in general is a masculine job. Regarding to the marital status of organic farmers, 80% are married while 20% are unmarried, which is expected due to the age of farmers. Almost all the organic farmers, 92% are in mainly occupation farmers and they live themselves and their families from farming. Finally, the organic farmers that their income depends solely on agriculture (100% of the total incomes are coming from agriculture) are 80%, 14% their income comes mainly from agriculture (more than 50% of the total incomes are coming from agriculture and less than 50% of the total incomes are noagricultural) and finally 6% of organic farmers receive as a secondary income the agricultural one (less than 50% of the total incomes are coming from agriculture). In particular it was found that the last category is coming from organic olives sector.

2.6. Current problems and perspectives of development Comparing organic farming in Greece with that of other European countries, it is obvious that the first lags significantly behind the latter. However, the progress in organic sector for Greece in recent years and more specifically after 2000 is impressive. In early of 90s, the interest was not in a high level. But after the adoption of EEC (European Economic Community) Regulation 2092/91, things changed.

Figure 22: Organic land use EU27, Source: Eurostat, 2008

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The reasons that the organic sector is not found in the corresponding levels in other EU countries (as the Figure 22 shows) are the many problems facing by the Greek farmers which are listed below: The farmers profession is not attractive to younger ages. Furthermore it is hard for an older farmer to change his cultivation methods. As organic farming contains elements of environmental and ecological protection of the farm, requires people with ecological and environmental awareness. The yield of organic cultivation turns out to be about 20% less than the respective conventional. The cost of organic production is higher than the corresponding conventional because of the increased costs that arising from the manual facing of weeds and the high cost of the approved organic fertilizers. The lack of appropriate organic plant protection products in the market and their high price. The know-how of the majority of the Greek organic farmers and their information on issues of organic cultivation methods, are in a low level. The lack of agronomists specialized in organic farming, which is observed in Greece. The cost of certification organizations is quite high and often dissuasive to the producers. The low price of organic products and their inability sometimes to disposal. The high cost of purchasing organic feed for organic animal husbandry. The certification system for organic products is characterized complex, bureaucratic and high cost for producers. Basic conditions for the development of organic agriculture could be as follows: The financial support for organic farmers both in the transition period and perhaps during the later course of organic farming. The updating information of the agronomists in terms of organic production methods. The introduction of organic agriculture in higher agronomic education. Information to farmers on organic farming in order to be convinced of its viability. The introduction of organic farming in vocational training. Organization of marketing for organic products. The consumers information in regard to organic products and their awareness of environmental protection. Funding for research on organic products. The organization of the control and certification system for organic products for their reliable disposal in Greek and international market.

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The creation of an information bank on the progress, achievements and experience gained from the exercise of organic farming, which will be available to all interested parties.

Organic farming in Greece has a comparative advantage, due to: mild weather conditions terrain low levels of pollution by agrochemicals family type of farms Organic farming could provide a satisfactory income to holdings that have an opportunity to respond to increased human labor that required by the organic method and can positively influence the cost of organic products. The soil and climate properties in Greece favor the production of products with excellent organoleptic properties. The factors that assisted the development of organic farming in other European countries (legislation, subsidies, trade and elaboration, consumers and farmers information, public research etc) are the ones that the Greek policy has to follow also. Some of the perspectives for the development of organic farming are: financial support for organic farmers during the transition period. information to new farmers, agronomists with seminars on the subject of organic farming, training in the cultivation process (seeding, growth, harvest, post harvest handling, alteration, etc.). organization of the marketing of organic products in support of entrepreneurship, production and marketing of these products. informing consumers about buying and using organic products, the consumption of which enhance the protection of the environment. funding research on the production of organic fertilizer and animal feed, green manure, the training of young people in organic farming, more advantageous rotation programs, intercropping, etc. reducing the bureaucracy at all stages of production. creation of pilot centers for research and training farmers in order to improve their skills on issues of organic agriculture and animal husbandry.

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3. Farming and training 3.1. Current situation The Greek agriculture is characterized by a number of structural weaknesses. The most important of them are: The low level of education of farmers The lack of expertise The producers limited knowledge of the market and his/her limited negotiating capability.

All these above affect in a negative way both the production process and the disposal of products by the producer and the overall effort as well for a development path in rural areas and the improvement of competitiveness. In Greece, the agricultural sector despite the fact that it is in a process of continuing evolution, however, has failed so far, in satisfactory results. One important factor that adversely affected to this were the incomplete or nonexistent, especially in recent years, the education, training and information of human and especially of young people engaged in trying to convince them to get involved in agriculture. In Greece, there is no spontaneous demand for integration in education and training projects in agricultural sector, despite the fact that the producers themselves admit their serious shortcomings in expertise. As shown in the figure below, the Greek farmers occupy one of the latest positions according to a Eurostat research for the training percentage of farmers.

Figure 23: Training and Education in agriculture, Source: Eurostat, 2009

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The main reasons for the "depreciation" of agricultural education and training are: The farm nowadays usually inherited. This doesnt mean that it can depend on the level of knowledge producers. The young people know that they will inherit their familys farm, so their education is not associated with the increased possibilities of finding a work. Dealing to agriculture (in the broadest sense of meaning) is not so attractive for young people. It is often a last resort, not a conscious choice. It must be admitted that to agriculture geared mainly young people, who either do not have the opportunity to study or do not find a job placement in another sector of economy. There are only few cases that to be a farmer is a life choice. The low educational level of the majority of them who are dealing with the agricultural profession and the comparatively higher rates of withdrawal of students after the compulsory education which is mainly happen especially in rural areas. Therefore, having understood that knowledge is the most important weapon for improving the competitiveness and reducing the unemployment must change the mentality that prevails in the Greek countryside, which believes that agricultural education and training is a luxury for the farmer. A model must be designed that could make the education and training more attractive and necessary for the Greek farmers by granting incentives. To this direction a very important step is the allocation of the Green Certificate which accredits the adequate professional knowledge of farmer. Furthermore this certificate will represent the first step towards recognition of the farmers profession. The Green Certificate is polyandry that promotes the Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food for training and certification of knowledge and skills of farmers. The Green Certificate is provided through specialized educational process, which combines theoretical knowledge and practical training and it is a key qualification for the Greek farmer. Under these conditions the providing of Green Certificate enables to start (gradually) and the consolidation of rural practice in Greece. As is known, training helps to broaden the horizons and raising of aspirations on the side of the learner. So when a well educated person works in agriculture is likely to be an ambitious, innovative entrepreneur. Consequently, the Greek farmer must be educated to increase his/her efficiency. This goal can be achieved by encouraging farmers to change attitudes, to provide 27

the tools and attitudes that contribute to improved management of their businesses, by providing practical knowledge of new techniques which will build an improved decision-making process. This is the educational objective of the Green Certificate. 3.2. VET in organic farming The multiple needs of the rural population of the country for training, vocational training, education and information has taken by the Organization for Agricultural Vocational Training, Training and Employment (Organismos Georgikis Epaggelmatikis Ekpaideusis, Katartisis kai Apascholisis O.G.E.E.K.A.) DIMITRA. OGEEKA DIMITRA is the national organization which has 67 branches in the country that promotes improving skills and attitudes to whom that want to produce competitive products while respecting the consumer and the environment. OGEEKA DIMITRA offers in a systematic way a channel to the multiple needs of farmers. Through an institutional framework, education, training and information of the farmer are given in an efficient way in order to support the development of agriculture and rural regeneration. Apart from OGEEKA DIMITRA, there is another body that offers vocational education and training to farmers. This body calls American Farm School of Thessaloniki. It is an independent, nonprofit educational institution founded in 1904 to serve the rural population of Greece and the Balkans. The educational program of the American Farm School, involves secondary education and lifelong learning for adult farmers. The secondary school offers an accredited general high school education along with a practical focus on a full range of agricultural, life science and technical subjects. The students from the whole Greece can live in the campus of the American School. The Lifelong Learning Department of the American Farm School offers a wide program of adult training, education and information by implementing continuing professional training and adult education programs, lectures, conferences, exchange programs and study visits on topics related to the agrifood sector, the environment, rural tourism, culture, agribusiness, IT and education. The Lifelong Learning Department operates a Center of Vocational Training (K.E.K.) accredited in the sectors of agriculture, industry and transport, environment, tourism, finance and management, information technology and 28

training of trainers by the National Accreditation Center for Continuing Vocational Training (supervised by the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance). The Department provides a wide program of adult education under the name Learning for Life which provides participants with the possibility to acquire new knowledge and skills in the environment of the AmericanFarm School. The subjects of the programs range from Pottery and Carpet Making to Beekeeping, Viticulture, Wine making and Wine tasting, Gardening and Organic Farming. Finally, the Department participates in a number of international activities and programs that concern continuing vocational training, adult education, elearning, employment support and information. Also there are training programs which are offered by the Vocational Training Centers in the field of Organic farming. The Vocational Training Centers have to be certified by Greek Authorities in the field of Agricultural in order to implement such programs. The aim of the vocational training is the target group to develop the skills with purpose to meet the new requirements and competences. In Greece there is no any body that deals only with training in organic agriculture and more especially with the training of farmers in the field of organic farming.

3.3. Training access barriers for farmers In Greece, the training in agriculture is not as widespread as in other EU countries (as shown in Figure 7). The fact that only 5,4% of Greek farmers attended a training program is particularly disturbing and assure the perception that has always been that, urban and rural people have limited interest in education and training. The experts that interviewed agreed that some of the training barriers that farmers face include the following factors: affordability admission requirements physical distance from training centers literacy numeracy language of instruction and scant resources. All the above factors present a formidable barrier to effective formal and nonformal education.

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4. E-learning and organic farming: present and future. Greek Educational Institutes have the chance to develop synchronous and asynchronous forms of distance learning applications for students and pupils, through the Internet, in order to meet the changing environment of the "Information Society". The greater challenge is to redesign the way they offer some specific courses. Vocational web-based courses contribute to make a new start far away of traditional teaching methods and towards a "newborn" system in which the students and pupils are motivated to assess their personal goals. Web-based education in the Greek context appears to be quite overarching in that it includes the use for teaching/learning purposes of many different kinds of software and digital study materials in a variety of off and on-line teaching/learning activities, from individual drill and practice to different forms of face-to-face and asynchronous communication. Practically it can characterize any part of a teaching/learning activity which includes the use of ICT. 4.1. National policies for supporting adult education and lifelong learning

The 2002 National Action Plan for Employment (by the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance) set the foundations for the state initiatives towards the promotion of lifelong learning and adult education and training. A main objective was to increase labour market participation. The central aim was to promote a policy of development and improvement of skills and qualifications of employees as well as the unemployed. The government has realised that the labour market demands qualifications and skills that initial formal education providers are not offering, thus creating a gap between demand and supply of skilled personnel. As a main actor in policy design and implementation, the Ministry of Education, Lifelong Learning and Religious Affairs has set up the General Secretariat for Adult Education whose three main objectives are to combat illiteracy and supplement basic education; to provide preparatory and non-formal vocational training, mainly to the unemployed; and to provide social and cultural enrichment. More generally, the aim of the Secretariat's policy is to prevent and combat social exclusion and to plan, coordinate and implement lifelong learning for all Greeks. Also under the shield of the Ministry of Education, Lifelong Learning and Religious Affairs is the Institute of Continuing Education for Adults which serves three main objectives: to provide lifelong learning and training to adults; to provide open and distance learning; and to help create employment for adults. Emphasis is given to the acquisition of basic qualifications and the development of personal skills. Under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance is the Hellenic Manpower Employment Organisation (OAED) which provides 30

vocational guidance by its specialized executives and counsellors about the professional alternatives available, and offers vocational training courses itself. The Organisation has an extensive net of 57 Vocational Training Centres throughout the country. It participates in the EVTA (European Vocational Training Association) in collaboration with which it has set up a Computer Network of Training Centres for young people who suffer from social exclusion. The National Accreditation Centre for Continuing Vocational Training (EKEPIS) is under the supervision of the Ministry of Labour & Social Insurance and the Ministry of Education, Lifelong Learning and Religious Affairs. It is responsible for the coordination, support, certification and enhancement of the actions taken by those offering Counselling and Vocational Guidance services in education, training and employment. EKEPIS cares for the development of a unified strategy with respect to the aims and orientation of Vocational Guidance in Greece. Acting as an executive agency of the State, EKEPIS endeavours to contribute, along with other competent bodies, to harmonization of the content and orientation of education and training with the requirements of the labour market to meet the demands of employers and employees in the light of current socio-economic concerns. All institutions and organisations whose function is to promote and deliver the government's Action Plan will receive financial support by the Hellenic Ministries of Labour and of Education. The government's determination to invest in education is apparent by the 9% increase of the Ministry's of Education Lifelong Learning and Religious Affairs budget.

4.2. National policies for fostering Web-based vocational education Web-based vocational education is being considered as an integral part of the national strategy for the promotion of a qualitive and supplementary education. The 2002 National Action Plan for the Employment of the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance of Greece mentions the will to fund and support works of development and test function of flexible forms of education with the use of the Internet (Web-based platforms).

4.3. Involved institutions foundations on Web-based vocational education Most Greek Universities are starting to develop web-based platforms mainly for the use of their own students, but some also offer access to outsiders. Examples, many of which are still in an early stage of development, include:

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Greek Universities Network eClass - A catalogue of more than 90 available courses for Greek university students and professors, some of which are open to the general public. Ifigenia - Distance Education Courses - The University of Crete is currently developing web-based courses suitable for online distance education. Computer Networks and Telematics Applications Lab (CONTA) by University of Macedonia - offers online seminars on Telematic Applications & Computer Networks, Information Systems in Education and Web-based Tele-Education.

Vocational training centres are currently being developed in Web-based vocational education especially for unemployed young people but for the farmers as well. Commercial organisations offering online vocational training have started to appear in the past years in Greece. These organisations can be solely web-based or they can be part of an established adult training organisation. They can offer courses on specific subjects to individuals, or comprehensive solutions to businesses that wish to train their staff. Some have existing online lessons and seminars available at a tuition fee and some others can design tailor-made programmes according to the needs of the client firm or individual. In a few cases, eLearning is offered after the purchase of a company product. Examples you can seed in the following: ACN INFORMATICS - NETCARTA: Online courses on computing skills and marketing available through time exchange with the "Netcarta" Internet access card. Interface plus eWorks: Free online computing skills courses with the purchase of a company Personal Computer. EStudies.gr: Offers a predefined set of online seminars developed by professionals that target all individuals who wish to further their knowledge in any of the existing topics. eUniversity College, Ksini Foundation: Offer of eLearning education and training programmes that adapt to the needs of the trainee, are available 24 hours thought the Internet or an Intranet, virtual classrooms and online cooperation between trainees and trainers, certification at the end of the studies.

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5. Glossary Agriculture Agriculture is the production, processing, marketing, and use of foods, fibers and by-products from plant crops and animals. Agriculture was the key development that led to the rise of human civilization, with the husbandry of domesticated animals and plants (i.e. crops) creating food surpluses that enabled the development of more densely populated and stratified societies. The study of agriculture is known as agricultural science. Agriculture is also observed in certain species of ant and termite. Agriculture encompasses a wide variety of specialties and techniques, including ways to expand the lands suitable for plant raising, by digging water-channels and other forms of irrigation. Cultivation of crops on arable land and the pastoral herding of livestock on rangeland remain at the foundation of agriculture. In the past century there has been increasing concern to identify and quantify various forms of agriculture. In the developed world the range usually extends between sustainable agriculture (e.g. permaculture or organic agriculture) and intensive farming (e.g. industrial agriculture). Organic Agriculture Organic agriculture is a system that relies on ecosystem management rather than external agricultural inputs. It is a system that begins to consider potential environmental and social impacts by eliminating the use of synthetic inputs, such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, veterinary drugs, genetically modified seeds and breeds, preservatives, additives and irradiation. These are replaced with site-specific management practices that maintain and increase long-term soil fertility and prevent pest and diseases. "Organic agriculture is a holistic production management system which promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity. It emphasizes the use of management practices in preference to the use of off-farm inputs, taking into account that regional conditions require locally adapted systems. This is accomplished by using, where possible, agronomic, biological, and mechanical methods, as opposed to using synthetic materials, to fulfill any specific function within the system." (FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission, 1999). Organic products Organic products are the result of cultivation without chemical fertilizers, pesticides and toxic pesticides. The control of plant diseases and soil fertilization are made with natural methods and organic supplies. The organic products are the result of traditional knowledge and the sciences search for health solutions. In organic farming does not use antibiotics and hormones. 33

Organic plant protection The key to organic plant protection (without chemicals) is correct growing methods and prevention. The organic plant protection is dependent on 3 basic practices: Proper crop rotation: Crops of the same family should not follow each other (example: Tomato cannot follow eggplant). Correct Fertilization/watering: Plants that are not healthy are easily sick or attacked by insects. Over watering can cause root and stem fungi that can destroy the plant. Crop watching and treatment: Spot check (check a few plants in different places) for insects and disease every day and treat for the problem. Diseases and insects are easier to control when the problem is small. Be sure to check around wells or other places with standing water as they may be insect breeding sites.

Conversion Products of Organic Agriculture in transition. The products of vegetable origin only, produced on plots' in conversion to organic farming. In these plots, the principles of organic agriculture for at least a year, thus ensuring the absence of pesticide residues in the finished product. OPEGEP - Agrocert: Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization, under the distinctive title AGROCERT is a Private Law Legal Entity operating for the public benefit under the supervision of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food (L. 2637/98). It is an established body responsible for the implementation of national policy on quality in agriculture. The main competences of AGROCERT are as follows: Certification of agricultural production systems Certification of agricultural products Evaluation, approval and supervision of Control and Certification private bodies, accredited by the National Accreditation System. Preparation and publication of optional sectoral standards and development of specifications towards quality assurance of agricultural products. EU organic farming logo The EU organic farming logo offers consumers confidence about the origins and qualities of their food and drink and its presence on any product ensures compliance with the EU organic farming Regulation.

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YPAAT Hellenic Ministry of Rural Development and Food.

EKEPIS: National Accreditation Centre for Continuing Vocational Training EKEPIS is a statutory body supervised by the Minister of Labour and Social Insurance with administrative and financial autonomy. The Centre's mission is to develop and implement the National Accreditation System for Continuing Vocational Training. IFOAM International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) is the worldwide umbrella organization for the organic movement, uniting more than 750 member organizations in 116 countries. FiBL The Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL Switzerland, FiBL Germany and FiBL Austria are centres for research and consultancy on organic agriculture. FiBL has long been committed to the international development of organic agriculture (there are, for instance, close links with the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements IFOAM). FiBL has competencies in organic soil management, plant production, holistic animal health, animal ethology and organic animal breeding, in socioeconomics, in comprehensive analysis of the organic market and in organic food processing and production. Eurostat Eurostat is the statistical office of the European Union situated in Luxembourg. Its task is to provide the European Union with statistics at European level that enable comparisons between countries and regions. OGEEKA DIMITRA Agency for Agricultural Training, Training and Employment (O.G.E.E.K.A.) - "DIMITRA It is the national body that promotes institutional means of TEE and EPA.S. available as well as 70 Centres 'Dimitra' improvement of professional competence and skills to produce competitive products while respecting the consumer and the environment.

OAED Manpower Employment Organization The Manpower Employment Organization (OAED) is the principal organ of the government policy on employment to ensure the necessary conditions for the rapid adjustment of labor supply with demand requirements, in harmony with each program country's economic development and related guidelines and instructions of the Minister of Labour and Social Insurance. 35

EVTA: European Vocational Training Association EVTA is an International Non Profit Making Association known as European Vocational Training Association. It is a European network that supports its members in their respective answers to the challenges of growth, competitiveness and social cohesion in the field of Life-Long Learning. EVTA is the largest vocational training community.

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6. Bibliography and documentation. Ministry of Rural Development and Food, www.minagric.gr Agricultural Products Certification and Supervision Organization (OPEGEP), www.agrocert.gr National Accreditation Center for Continuing Vocational Training, www.ekepis.gr Ministry of Education, Lifelong Learning and Religious Affairs www.ypepth.gr National Center of Vocational Guidance www.ekep.gr/education European Commission, Eurostat, Statistics, http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/statistics_explained/index.php/Organic_f arming_statistics#Further_Eurostat_information Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL, www.fibl.org International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM), www.ifoam.org Bio DIO NET, www.dionet.gr BIO-HELLAS S.A., www.bio-hellas.gr QWAYS S.A., www.qways.gr A-CERT S.A., www.a-cert.org IRIS, www.irisbio.gr GREEN CONTROL, www.greencontrol.gr GMCERT, www.gmcert.gr QMS-CERT, www.qmscert.gr TUV HELLAS, www.tuvhellas.gr FILIKI CERT S.A., www.filikicert.gr National Printing House www.et.gr Hellenic Statical Authority, www.statistics.gr Stavrou, Stavros (1995). Vocational Education and Training in Greece. 37

Vasileia Vretakou, Panagiotis Rouseas (2002). Vocational Education and Training in Greece. www.pi-schools.gr/programs/par/pdf/erevnes_C4_5135_el.pdf

Maria Dokou, Lifelong Learning and training in Greece Quality and Evaluation www.nspa.gr/uploads/20070208_sek_stin_ellada.pdf

Margherita Antona (2006), eLearning country report for GREECE, www.euser-eu.org

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, www.auth.gr National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, www.uoa.gr National Technical University of Athens, www.ntua.gr University of Piraeus, www.unipi.gr University of Thessaly, www.uth.gr University of Patras, www.upatras.gr

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