Abnormal weather and threats to food security highlight the importance of sustainable farming, which is now seen as the only way forward for agricultural development globally. Taitung County Government has a deep understanding of this trend. As such, Taitung has dedicated itself to the development of organic farming by joining such organizations as the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) and establishing the Guanshan Ziyuan Organic Agriculture Promotion Area. The first of its kind on the east coast, this 182-hectare campus makes it the largest organic agriculture promotion area in Taiwan.
(photo credit: 梓園碾米工廠 IG@zi_yuan888)
The main goal of organic agriculture promotion areas is to eliminate pollution from chemical fertilizers and pesticides while promoting a complete range of organic farming techniques within a specific location. The Ziyuan site has over one hundred farmers dedicated to moving away from conventional farming in favor of more organic and environmentally friendly techniques. To garner the support of local farmers, the County government offers incentives such as a forty percent discount on renting public land and subsidies on farming equipment. In addition, the County ensures crops can grow in a healthy environment by providing farmers with technical guidance and advice on optimizing their cultivation processes.
The advantage of organic farming is that it can maintain the local environment and biodiversity. This stands in stark contrast to the chemical pollution of land caused by traditional agriculture. In addition to promoting sustainable ecological development, organic approaches can also help cultivate more fertile land. Consumers can also rest assured organic products that have passed rigorous inspection do not contain pesticide residues. In terms of its location, 84% of the land around Ziyuan Organic Agriculture Promotion Area has already passed organic certification. This has helped maintain high standards throughout the area by tackling the common problem of runoff pollution from neighboring farms.
(photo credit: 梓園碾米工廠 IG@zi_yuan888)
(photo credit: Taitung County Government)
Organic agriculture also has a positive impact on how much farmers earn. For example, the farmers of Ziyuan originally grew a well-known strain called “emperor’s rice,” whose name comes from its crystal-clear texture and rich aroma. The history of growing this strain dates back to the Japanese colonial period, when it was given to Japan’s emperor as an offering. However, the value of growing this strain decreased as time passed. Nowadays, farmers have transitioned to organic approaches. In addition to preserving the area’s uniqueness, organic farming has raised the income of farmers by adding value and increasing profits.
In reality, Taitung County has boldly taken the lead in promoting ecofriendly organic agriculture for many years. According to the latest statistics, Taitung County has 1,328 hectares that have passed organic certification and another 1,139 that employ ecofriendly farming practices. At a total of 2,467 hectares, Taitung County has 12% of the country’s organic and ecofriendly farmland, which is the third highest in Taiwan. This clearly demonstrates the passion and dedication that Taitung’s farmers have towards maintaining an ecofriendly environment.
(photo credit: Taitung County Government)
In addition to infrastructure, Taitung County organized an organic slow food fair called “Exploring the Flavors of Eastern Taiwan” at Taipei’s Far Eastern SOGO Department Store in May of 2024. This event allowed the public to get a deeper understanding of the unique charm of Taitung’s agricultural scene. The fair brought together over 20 groups of farmers to exhibit their organic fruits, vegetables, grains, and salt among other products. In addition, 19 Taitung slow food restaurants also displayed their fair trade and ecofriendly cuisine. Experts were also invited to share their insights on the cultural meaning behind local ingredients such as tea, alcohol, rice, fish, and salt. Moreover, local Taitung artist Gao Minshu further demonstrated the possibility of a comprehensive organic lifestyle through an exhibit of her work made from recycled materials.
Organic agriculture is a way to actualize several important goals at once. More than just a key component of environmental protection, organic agriculture is also related to improving food security and the livelihoods of farmers. Through the leadership of the Ziyuan Organic Agriculture Promotion Area, Taitung aims to become Taiwan’s new benchmark in promoting organic businesses by inspiring more organic ventures to take root throughout the county. Taitung also hopes that other agricultural regions see Ziyuan’s success and follow suit to work tirelessly towards environmental protection, healthy food, and sustainable development.
