The proposal to turn Gozo into an ecological island has been welcomed by the Malta Organic and Agriculture Movement, whose dream is to see Malta and Gozo turned into organic islands.

"If this had to happen, Gozo would be a heaven on earth, and not only from an agriculture aspect but also due to a substantial improvement in people's quality of life," movement spokesman John Portelli told The Times.

"A couple of weeks ago I would have said that our dream that has never come true was to see Malta and Gozo turned into ecological islands," he said.

Mr Portelli also expressed his belief that going for organic farming is the only way to make the island attractive for agrotourism.

Last Tuesday, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi announced plans to turn Gozo into an ecological island, starting off from one village and rolling out across the whole island.

He said Gozo should become a model of sustainable development and environmental protection.

Contacted yesterday, Mr Portelli said the movement would definitely support such an action, adding that it was already helping a number of farmers jump on the organic bandwagon.

However, the number of registered organic farmers was still small, despite high demand for organic produce.

"Our problem at the moment is that we cannot keep up with demand. We are trying to convince new farmers to go for organic farming," he said.

Mr Portelli said more and more people are realising the health benefits of organic farming and are conscious of the health repercussions of pesticides and insecticides used in conventional farming.

"The effect of these chemicals on people is still not known," he said adding that another benefit of organic food is that it has a higher level of vitamins and nutrients.

Moreover, he continued, it has been scientifically proven that organic farming helps to reduce carbon emissions in the environment. Conventional farming contributes substantially to greenhouse gases.

Does he believe that farmers will resist a switch to organic farming?

Mr Portelli believes that this depends on how the measure will be implemented, adding that while farmers should be given help, this should not be presented as a choice.