TROPICAL EFFICIENCY
"All these studies prove that African organic produce is four-to-six times lower in greenhouse gas emissions in reaching the European market, than European produce," Mbithi said.
"Producing crops in tropical lands is more energy efficient than in European lands. That's basic science. There is more sunshine and the temperature is more conducive to growing crops, than temperate climates," he added.
Some African producers worry that a ban starting in the UK may spread across the European Union.
"Right now we fear the ban will be implemented by other EU countries, causing a severe economic and social impact on the livelihood of our farmers, and risking the survival of our own organic market," said Eustace Kiarii, National Coordinator for The Kenya Organic Agriculture Network.
Even a total ban may not, however, prove fatal to African organic exports as they could turn to other British certification groups.
The Soil Association certifies much of the organic produce sold in Britain but in some sectors, such as poultry and eggs, other groups dominate.
"We would not support a blanket ban," Richard Jacobs, chief executive of separate certification group Organic Farmers and Growers said, noting some air freight used empty space on passenger planes.
"If the Soil Association were to ban air freight we would certainly consider taking on the certification," he added.
The debate, however, is further evidence of significant public concern in Britain which has prompted retailers Tesco
"The public concern most frequently raised with us is the perceived inappropriateness of air freighting organic food. This is a concern shared by many organic businesses," said Anna Bradley, chair of the Soil Association standards board.
(By Nigel Hunt, with additional reporting by Nicolo Gnecchi in Nairobi)
