Organic PGI Camargue rice in France

Abstract

Organic rice production has expanded significantly in Camargue in recent years, reaching almost 20% of the hectares planted with rice in the delta of the river Rhône. Most of these organic cultivations follow the code of practice of the PGI Camargue rice scheme. The sustainability assessment carried out in the realm of the Strength2Food project shows favourable performance compared to the one of conventional rice, with a positive environmental balance at rice field level, closer local integration of the chain and higher social sustainability. Further extension of organic rice cultivation raises questions at regional level, especially regarding weed management and preventing the salinization of water, which necessitate innovations in systems and practices.