Organic pioneer Werner Lampert is dead: a loss for the future of agriculture

Organic pioneer Werner Lampert is dead: a loss for the future of agriculture

On October 9, 2025, the important Austrian biopioneer Werner Lampert died at the age of 79. His death represents a serious loss for the industry that he played a key role in shaping. Lampert was the founder of “Yes! Naturally” and “Back to the Origin” and tirelessly advocated for sustainable farming methods in organic farming. His partner, Ursula Ramsauer, confirmed the unexpected death and expressed heartfelt sadness at the loss of an innovative thinker.

Lampert grew up on his grandmother's farm, which formed his close connection to nature and agricultural practices. In the 1980s he revolutionized the Austrian market by offering the first organic products in Vienna. In 1994 he founded "Ja! Natural", which quickly became known as a synonym for organic farming and responsible consumption. With “Back to the Origin,” which he launched in 2006, Lampert set new standards for regional production, animal welfare and transparency.

A life's work for organic farming

Lampert's philosophy emphasized respect for nature, animals and the people who produce food. These principles correspond to the goals of organic farming, which is based on environmentally friendly production methods and promotes species-appropriate animal husbandry. The European regulation of organic production, which has existed since 1991, has established a strong control system to ensure standards with Regulation (EU) 2018/848.

His influence extended beyond the borders of Austria and made him a defining figure in the European organic scene. Organic farming in the EU now covers around 7.5% of the total agricultural area and is receiving constant support through initiatives such as the Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

Ongoing impacts and the path forward

According to vorarlberg.orf.at, Lampert's death is seen by many as a serious loss for the industry, which owes a lot to him. With a clear focus on sustainable farming methods, he has made an important contribution to establishing the organic market, which grew to $89.7 billion globally in 2016. In Austria, the proportion of organically farmed land was 26.5% in 2021, which underlines the relevance of his work.

Developments in organic farming also show that more and more consumers are becoming aware of sustainable products. Lampert's legacy will remain alive in the ongoing efforts to protect the environment, preserve soil fertility and promote biodiversity.

IFOAM (International Association of Organic Agriculture Movements), which has promoted organic farming worldwide since its founding in 1972, and similar organizations will undoubtedly continue Lampert's work and seek new ways to deepen and expand the principles of organic farming.