COABC’s approach to food production is based on care for the earth. We recognize that as human beings, we are one creature among many that are all inter-related and interdependent. We are part of an organic movement that embraces a wide diversity of activities and enterprises related to the organic production of food and encompass all sizes of operations. While one of the tools we use is a regulatory framework to permit exports, our priority is the establishment and maintenance of local food systems. We accept the principles of organic farming and processing identified by the International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movements (IFOAM) and engage in research of appropriate techniques to enable us to put them all into practice.
The Certified Organic Associations of BC (COABC) is an umbrella association for certification bodies which provides certification accreditation and leadership in the development of organic food production throughout British Columbia and Canada.
The COABC seeks to educate farmers transitioning to organic production; advocate for organic consumption; provide current research and vital information for consumers, producers, stakeholders and the media; and interface with federal and provincial governments, and various organic sector stakeholders.