.png)
Regenerative agriculture is not only a way of farming but also a way of living in harmony with nature. It has the potential to transform our food system, our climate, and our future.
But how can we make this potential a reality?
When asked, farmers aspiring regenerative practices within their field often express challenges in the transition due to financial and technical barriers.
What's wrong with conventional farming?
Most farming still relies on ploughing, fertilizing, and spraying chemicals to grow crops. This degrades the soil, releases CO2 and other greenhouse gases, and pollutes waterways. It also reduces biodiversity and makes the land more vulnerable to droughts, floods, pests, and diseases.
Regenerative agriculture is a way of farming that mimics nature and restores the health of the soil. However, a holistic practice of regenerative farming also results in less chemical input, minimizing tilling systems, incorporating livestock, increasing biodiversity and the creation of carbon sinks instead of being huge carbon releasors.
The benefits seem great, but how is it economically viable?
A report from the WBSCD, in conjunction with op2b and BCG indicates that the transition period, roughly 3-5 years, can cause a temporary dip in revenue for farmers. However, after a successful implementation, regenerative farmers can see up to a 120% increase in profit, with a 15-20% ROI.
Advancing regenerative farming will heavily depend on the support pathways we provide in training, cultural support mechanisms and access to financing.
Across stakeholders, in relation to policy, investment and consumption, it becomes clear that we need to rethink our farming models, for the health of the planet, the resilience of the food systems, and the livelihood of farmers and the living creatures surrounding them.
Follow us on LinkedIn for more updates!