The Conference on Organic Agriculture for Biodiversity and Sustainable Development was successfully held face-to-face in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 9–10 December 2024. Organized by the National Productivity Secretariat (NPS), Sri Lanka, and the APO Secretariat, the conference brought together 98 participants from 15 APO members to explore policies, technologies, and strategies for enhancing biodiversity and sustainability through organic agriculture.

The conference emphasized the critical role of organic agriculture in contributing to biodiversity and sustainable development. Key discussions centered on international trends as well as policies and ecosystem-based strategies to scale up organic farming. Resource persons from Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Japan, Denmark, and Sri Lanka shared policies and practical case studies. Presentations by these resource persons showcased innovative solutions for integrating organic agriculture into national sustainability frameworks.

Participants gained insights into best practices from Japan, Indonesia, India, and Sri Lanka, which demonstrated how organic agriculture can enhance biodiversity and support long-term sustainability goals. The event also served as a platform for knowledge sharing and networking among policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders from APO members, contributing to Green Productivity in agriculture and sustainable development.

One participant remarked, “The knowledge and case studies shared during this conference will help us formulate effective policies and strategies to scale up organic agriculture back home.”