The conventional agriculture industry has been chasing ever-higher yields through resource-intensive practices like monoculture crop production and heavy tilling for years. However, an agricultural movement focused on rebuilding soil health and revitalizing ecosystems is rapidly gaining steam. Welcome to the era of regenerative agriculture.
So what exactly does "regenerative" mean? These farming methods "rehabilitate and enhance entire ecosystems," according to the Indigenous Arizona researcher profiled in KiowaCountyPress.net. Practices like rotational grazing, cover cropping, and minimal tilling help build soil fertility and biodiversity. The end game is more nutrient-dense foods produced through environmentally sustainable systems.
While regenerative ag has been around for decades, it's gone remarkably mainstream over the past few years. Impact Ag Partners reported that Australian farmers are "lifting productivity with 'good' environmental benefits" through these soil-first approaches. Studies show regenerative methods can boost profits, too—Advancing Eco Agriculture found consistent positive ROI from seed treatments and foliar applications.
In San Antonio, the startup Grassroots Carbon is "fighting climate change one acre at a time" by restoring soil health and increasing carbon capture through regenerative grazing. Regenerative agriculture ranked among the most underrated climate solutions of 2023 in GreenBiz's trends roundup. With its potential to slash emissions and pull CO2 from the atmosphere, it's a powerhouse for stabilizing our climate.
Small businesses are also riding the regenerative wave. Delaware Today explored the state's growing demand for grass-fed, pasture-raised meats and responsibly sourced seafood. Over in New York, two sisters made headlines by launching their skyr dairy company with milk from cows raised on regenerative family farms (North Central PA.com)
From individual entrepreneurs to expansive operations, the regenerative agriculture movement is rapidly evolving how we grow food. By rebuilding soil ecosystems, this restorative green movement might save the planet's health—while putting more nutrient-dense foods on our plates.