Regenerative agriculture to strengthen biodiversity and food systems

October 21, 2024

Regenerative agriculture improves soil health through ecologically-minded agronomic principles such as cover cropping, rotational grazing and reduced tillage. Rooted in a holistic approach to farming, regenerative practices acknowledge the interconnectedness of ecosystems and strive to create sustainable agricultural systems that benefit both the environment and crop productivity. As more farmers turn to regenerative agriculture, it is anticipated that this will lead to more resilient food systems and healthier landscapes globally.

Regenerative agriculture operations are 120% more profitable, require fewer inputs and are expected to generate €1.2 trillion in increased crop production by 2050. To support the transition to a regenerative agriculture model, government initiatives and policies are now being introduced at local, national and international levels. This includes incentives such as subsidies, grants and technical support to encourage farmers to adopt sustainable practices. Additionally, educational programs and workshops are becoming increasingly available, providing farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully implement regenerative techniques, such as those offered by VIVACE.

The value of the regenerative market is currently estimated at €8.4 billion, with 14% CAGR expected growth by 2030. This reflects a broader shift to regenerative models in agri systems, which prioritize soil health and environmental sustainability. With the potential to address issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity, it is clear that regenerative agriculture is not just a trend but a necessary solution for sustainable food production.

For example, studies have shown that regenerative farming practices can sequester significant amounts of carbon in the soil, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. Additionally, by promoting diverse plant and animal life on farms, regenerative agriculture helps to preserve biodiversity and protect against pests and diseases without relying on harmful chemicals.

Moreover, regenerative agriculture also has the potential to improve food security by increasing crop resilience and diversity. By implementing sustainable practices such as cover cropping and rotational grazing, farmers can improve soil fertility and reduce erosion, leading to more productive crops even in times of extreme weather events. This is especially important as global food demand continues to rise alongside changing climatic conditions.

Separately, shifts in consumer preferences are driving markets to prioritize transparency and sustainability, ultimately benefiting farmers who embrace regenerative methods. By fostering collaboration between stakeholders, from policymakers to consumers, the movement towards regenerative agriculture can gain momentum, paving the way for a healthier planet, more robust agricultural systems and economic models that are truly fair to stakeholders throughout the value chain.

CPM