INTEGRATED PRODUCTION

The International Organization for Biological Control (IOBC; iobc.ethz.ch/) has provided the leadership for developing the Integrated Production philosophy, general guidelines, and crop specific technical guidelines. The IOBC defines Integrated Production (IP) as a "farming system that produces high quality food and other products by using natural resources and regulating mechanisms to replace polluting inputs and to secure sustainable farming. Emphasis is placed on a holistic systems approach involving the entire farm as the basic unit, on the central role of agro-ecosystems, on balanced nutrient cycles, and on the welfare of all species in animal husbandry. The preservation and improvement of soil fertility and of a diversified environment are essential components. Biological, technical and chemical methods are balanced carefully taking into account the protection of the environment, profitability and social requirements."