Analyzing data from 74 field comparison studies measuring carbon levels in soils under organic and conventional farming systems throughout the world, international experts headed by scientists from the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) in Switzerland have concluded that organic agriculture provides environmental benefits through carbon sequestration in soils. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, confirms higher organic carbon concentrations and stocks in top soils under organic farming. Scientists credited mixed farming practices using livestock and crop production and recycling organic matter and forage legumes in crop rotation as major factors in these higher levels.

From the Organic Center, The Organic Scoop, January 2013.