Rhapsody in Green

Rhapsody of Aarstiderne

Aarstiderne has delivered organic products to the doorsteps of Danish households since 1999. It started out as a small vegetable garden at a farm, Barritskov, in the western part of Denmark. The garden supplied fresh vegetables for about 100 local households.

Now Aarstiderne delivers organic produce to the doorsteps of 35.000 Danish households, employs 110 people, provides a sales channel for organic farmers and catalyses the public motion towards healthier food and better environment in Denmark – not by agitating, but simply by enabling everybody to be a part of the good idea - by doing it!

The idea of Aarstiderne grew out of the work of farmer Thomas Harttung putting his farm at the disposal of the idea of partnering with private households around Barritskov - and of the work of chef Søren Ejlersen contributing with a strong intuition on what people liked and how they liked it and on food quality in general. 

That and a huge want in both of them to change the general opinion on farming and food and sustainability -combined with a tremendous effort and a willingness to share and open up the idea to others for participation.

From the beginning, both Thomas Harttung and Søren Ejlersen have had strong relationships with as well the political world as the media world. As Aarstiderne has developed, it has become more and more visible how powerful the idea of making ecology contemporary and accessible can be.  And through raising the awareness of sustainability and food quality, reconnecting people with the natural world.

You will find more background information through the links below:

The Idea

Philosophy and Mission

The Challenge of Sustainability

The Innovative Character of the Idea

Social Relevance

Impact on the Future

The Dimensions of Green Food

Success Criteria

The Near Future

Contact

Thomas' speech at Cirencester 2003 -  'Thinking Outside the Box' - Part I - Part II - Part III