Bioverband “Erde & Saat“

Year of establishment: 1987
Chairman: Ing. Matthias Böhm
General Manager: Mag. Wolfgang Plaimer

The organic association “Erde & Saat” was founded in 1987 to preserve and breed unique cereal varieties. Its members, mainly organic farmers, were agricultural pioneers. A year later, it was officially renamed “Erde & Saat” and expanded. Some members diversified by processing farm produce, promoting independent craft businesses. This strengthened organic farming, supported local employment and ecological balance.

Today, “Erde & Saat” has more than 600 members nationwide. Active regional groups, field days and festivals encourage collaboration. Funded entirely by members, it’s committed to social, environmental and economic sustainability, focusing on soil fertility, biodiversity and local cereal varieties. Members benefit from advice, education and a magazine, as well as field trips and training on sustainable goals.

General description of the organization and its activities

The “Erde & Saat” organic farming association now has more than 600 members, the majority of whom are arable and vegetable farmers. This diverse membership base reflects the breadth of farming practice, ranging from traditional arable farming to vegetable production. 

The working practices and principles of “Erde & Saat” are deeply rooted in the values of social, environmental and economic responsibility. Members share the belief that sustainability in agriculture is of paramount importance. This includes the conservation of natural resources and the creation of a healthy environment.

Another central concern of the association is the promotion of the farming community and social structures. This is done through mutual support among farmers. The members of “Erde & Saat” work closely together, exchanging knowledge and experience and supporting each other in facing the challenges of organic farming. This collegial cooperation strengthens not only the individual farms but also the entire organic farming community and helps to achieve common goals.

Country of origin of the migrant workers

Most of the people working as harvesters in Austria come from Eastern European countries such as countries such as Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Romania. There is also a growing number of from Africa and Asia.

Number of workers and migrant workers of the organization

Since the association includes a large number of farms, no blanket figure can be given here. It ranges from small family farms without additional labour to large vegetable farmers who employ several seasonal workers.

Provenience of the migrant workers within the country

Since the association includes a large number of farms, no blanket figure can be given here.

Presentation of the initiative(s) implemented

Reasons and motivations of the integration initiative involving migrants

As well as the high standards of its products, the organic association “Erde und Saat” is also concerned with the treatment of the people who work in the fields. Social, ecological and economic responsibility are at the forefront of the association’s philosophy.

The members of the association are committed to the principles of holistic and fair production. This means that permanent or year-round employees, day labourers, seasonal workers and trainees are integrated into the system and mindset of organic farming. Workers are paid fairly and are registered, fed and housed in accordance with legislation and local conditions.

Organic inspections ask about this aspect, but do not directly check it, as the legal responsibility lies with the legislator. Nevertheless, Earth and Seed ensures that its members commit to ethical and social standards in agriculture, thus promoting holistic sustainability in organic production.

External stakeholders associated

External stakeholders include the members of the association, Bio-Austria, the Chamber of Agriculture and consumers. These groups play an important role in the work of the organic association “Erde und Saat”. The members of the association are the heart of the association, as they drive organic agriculture forward and form the community. Bio-Austria is an umbrella organisation for organic initiatives in Austria and promotes organic agriculture throughout the country. The Chamber of Agriculture is an official institution that represents the interests of farmers and is involved in legislation. External stakeholders also include consumers, who influence the market with their demand for organic products and support organic farmers in “soil and seed”. Interaction and cooperation with these stakeholders is crucial for the success and sustainability of organic agriculture.

Description of the inclusion process step by step

It is not the task of the organic association “Erde & Saat” to develop concrete initiatives for the integration of seasonal workers into the everyday life of the farm. This is the responsibility of the individual farms. However, certain social criteria are an essential part of the organic certification required for “Erde & Saat” certification and membership. These include the proper registration of workers with the tax office, social security and other legal requirements. Accommodation must also meet local standards in terms of room size, sanitation, heating and the like. Compliance with these social and legal requirements is part of the commitment to sustainable and responsible organic agriculture.

Members who do not comply with these requirements may be excluded from the association and lose their organic certification.

Training issues

Training needs to deal with migrants according to the role

There is interest in training on leading multicultural teams. This could be based on the training materials of the MILIMAT project.