From the Agriculture Course to Sustainable Farming

A fascinating exploration of the growth of the biodynamic movement over the last century from esteemed experts in the field.

Today, biodynamic agriculture is practiced in more than 50 countries worldwide and offers a way of growing high-quality produce through the sustainable cultivation of soil, plants and animals. But where did it begin and how did it come to have such an impact?

In this fascinating book, Ueli Hurter and Rudi Bind trace the history and development of the biodynamic movement over a century. They examine the roots of the movement in the Agriculture Course given by Rudolf Steiner in 1924, providing a clear overview of the course's key themes and ideas; they also include reflections from the course participants.

The authors describe initiatives that have arisen from biodynamics, such as community-supported agriculture and the creation of seed banks, as well as the influence it has had on the wider organic movement, regenerative farming and the campaign against chemical pesticides and fertilizers. They also include contemporary examples that demonstrate how biodynamics is helping individuals and communities around the world to thrive, including in Egypt, Brazil, Argentina, Spain and India.

This book will be of interest to anyone who wants to understand the origins of biodynamic agriculture, its growth into a worldwide movement and its continuing impact on the world.

Rudi Bind studied Goethean phenomenology and existential philosophy. He has worked as a journalist and primary teacher, and is co-founder of the Heinrich Barth Society. He lives in Arlesheim, Switzerland.

Ueli Hurter is the joint-Head of the Agriculture Section at the Goetheanum, Switzerland, and sits on the executive board of the International Biodynamic Association.

Bernard Jarman was Executive Director of the Biodynamic Agricultural Association in the UK for fifteen years and continues to teach courses in biodynamic agriculture all around the world. He is the author of The Biodynamic Movement in Britain and lives in Stroud, UK.