There are many aspects of the anthroposophical movement in the world today in which cultural acceptance continues to develop with true vigor. Clearly the Waldorf School movement, activity from the pharmacological world, and the effectiveness of Camphill around the world are examples of acceptance. Now there is a new opening in the world of biodynamics. There is a strong growing culture of interest and commitment to “real,” unprocessed food. The attention to quality paid in the world of wine consumption is drawing much awareness towards biodynamics. More and more people genuinely care how the earth is affected by food-growing practices.

The development of a dialogue that recognizes the spiritual foundations of existence, while maintaining effectiveness in the manifest world, is the task of any discipline arising from the work of Rudolf Steiner. Biodynamics has a crucial role in that process. To paraphrase the concept that Rudolf Steiner has in many places made clear: “if the food is not sufficiently vital, it will not be possible for individuals to think the thoughts necessary for spiritual development.” If this idea is accepted, the importance of biodynamics is reinforced in a remarkable way.

What is needed is a comprehensive plan to implement commercial penetration of the Biodynamic brand into the commercial life of contemporary society with a broad sweep. This has to be worked through with skill of long-term thinking, clear commercial consciousness, and sufficient capital to have a worldwide recognition that is as commonplace as names such as Monsanto or Agilent amongst the consuming public. The preparation of such a plan has to take into full effect the realities of production, distribution, and consumer expectation (brand development). When looked at in detail the great need for capital will be in the realms of production and distribution, but a forceful formative process for the brand development needs to be taken up at the same time. Capital will only move towards Biodynamics if the perception of marketability through brand development is clear for future financial projections. This will require brand recognition as an equal component to production resources and cost effective distribution infrastructure.

In order to provide a plentiful supply of Biodynamic products (goods, fibers, medicinal, and so on) and bring them to people who want them, it is important to acknowledge certain challenges to be met. For example:

1. willing and able farm workers/farmers
2. affordable and available land
3. adequate income/financial security for the successful operation of farms and the well-being of those who work on them
4. education of new farmers
5. plentiful, high-quality Biodynamic seed, safe from the rule of large agri-business

Some examples of the activities that could be envisioned for the biodynamic community in ten years time are:

1. further strengthened Biodynamic agriculture training centers and programs, complete with funding for those centers and programs
2. much greater consumer demand and interest generated in large part by a higher awareness and profile of Biodynamics in general as a result of effective brand development
3. funding to support farms, for example in the form of grants for individual apprentices/ interns and farms to support continuing education
4. subsidized consultancy services for farms (financial, organizational, agricultural)
5. low-interest financing possibilities for farms

This is major undertaking and needs to pick up on all of the good work that has been done in the past and is in preparation today. I look forward to the day when Biodynamic products are on every shelf in markets all over North America.