Across the world, farmers are embracing regenerative farming practices to tackle the challenges posed by climate change, growing populations, and the need to protect our natural environment. From innovative startups to large-scale farms, these practices yield positive results for both the planet and the farmers themselves (1).
Why Regenerative Farming Matters
Farmers today face numerous challenges, including adapting to changing weather patterns, climate unpredictability, and the pressing need to feed a projected 9.8 billion people by 2050 (2). Regenerative farming offers a solution by taking a holistic approach that considers the entire ecosystem, focusing on enhancing farm resilience, sustainability, and biodiversity (1).
Unlike industrial farming, which prioritizes short-term goals through scheduled inputs and outputs, regenerative farming positions farmers as "stewards of the land." By fostering healthier soils, improving water infiltration, and reducing soil erosion, regenerative practices can sustain yields and reduce production costs in the long run (3).
Five Examples of Regenerative Farming from Around the World
General Mills, US: Committed to deploying regenerative practices across one million acres by 2030, General Mills measures impact across economic resiliency, soil health, water use, biodiversity, and animal welfare. Their pilot programs offer education, support, and research to help farmers align with regenerative principles (1).
Bec-Hellouin, France: A small farm in Normandy is designed as a "mini-forest garden," mimicking natural ecosystems to promote diversity and healthy growth. Despite its size, the farm produces approximately 800 varieties of vegetables, fruit, and herbs, demonstrating the potential of permaculture-based regenerative practices (1).
Microsoft and Danone, Europe: In partnership with EIT Food, these companies are accelerating agrifood startups specializing in AI to optimize and simplify regenerative practices. Danone's initiatives focus on protecting soil health, empowering farmers, and promoting animal welfare (1).
Ridgedale Farm, Sweden: This farm and educational site offers intensive programs on regenerative practices, agroforestry, and livestock management. By providing access to advanced tools and monitoring systems, Ridgedale aims to demonstrate the viability of sustainable, profitable land-use systems in extreme climates (1).
Balbo Group, Brazil: Leontino Balbo Junior transformed his family's sugarcane business by adopting alternative fertilizers, pesticides, and innovative harvesting methods that prioritize soil health. Despite initial challenges, the Balbo Group now achieves 20% higher productivity than conventional sugarcane production (1).
This article is adapted from "Farming for a better climate: five examples of regenerative farming practices" by EIT Food (1).
Sources:
EIT Food. (2020, October 7). Farming for a better climate: five examples of regenerative farming practices. https://www.eitfood.eu/blog/post/farming-for-a-better-climate-five-examples-of-regenerative-farming-practices
United Nations. (2017, June 21). World population projected to reach 9.8 billion in 2050, and 11.2 billion in 2100. https://www.un.org/development/desa/en/news/population/world-population-prospects-2017.html
Burgess, P. J., Harris, J., Graves, A. R., & Deeks, L. K. (2019). Regenerative Agriculture: Identifying the Impact; Enabling the Potential. Report for SYSTEMIQ. Bedfordshire, UK: Cranfield University. https://farmpep.net/index.php/node/164