July 2024

Did you know that the food that sustains us is also one of the most significant contributors to climate change? According to the World Bank, agrifood systems emit about one-third of the global greenhouse gas emissions.

However, here's the twist: Certain agricultural practices and healthy soil can help absorb carbon, which is good for the environment. The key lies in our farming methods; conventional methods raise global emissions, whereas regenerative methods can help curb them. Agriculture that adopts these regenerative methods is known as regenerative agriculture.

You gain some basic insights into this alternative production method in this manual entry.

conventional VS. REGENERATIVE practices

Here is a rough comparison of common conventional- versus regenerative agricultural practices.

CONVENTIONAL AGRICULTURE

Conventional agriculture focuses on commercial production and uses synthetically produced fertilisers, insecticides and pesticides, contributing highly to climate change in many ways.
For example, ‘monoculture cropping’ and ‘ploughed soil practice’ expose bare soils for extended periods, releasing organic carbon from the soil. These practices

• reduce the adaptability of agricultural soil to climate change,

• causing severe impacts such as loss of species’ biodiversity

• and ecosystem services like pollination,

• increase in soil erosion,

• decline in soil fertility,

• downstream damage to water resources

• and degradation of coastal ecosystems. 

REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE

In contrast, regenerative agriculture practices

• actively enhance the well-being of the land, waterways, resident animals, and those who depend on them.

• Carbon, the culprit in climate change, finds a new home in the soil, reducing our Carbon Footprint →.

• Plus, the food? It becomes a nutrient-packed, flavorful delight. 

Standard regenerative practices include cover cropping, holistically managing grazing, no-till farming, composting, and avoiding fossil fuel-based inputs. These practices help restore soil health and increase farm productivity. 

The following table outlines the general practices embraced by farmers in both regenerative and conventional agriculture.

Why regenerative agriculture now?

As the population increases, so does the demand for resources. Therefore, we need to adopt practices that naturally improve productivity and yield to maintain a resilient ecosystem and ensure the nutritious value of food. 

To reduce conventional agriculture's emissions and impact, a systemic change in agricultural practices is required. Mindfully working with nature and adopting regenerative agriculture practices can bring this change.

But, if it's so great, are there any policies on it? Well, yes. With the European Green Deal, the European Union (EU) aims to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050. The Farm to Fork Strategy, part of this plan, wants European food production to set a global sustainability standard by 2030. Targets include 

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55%.

• Cutting pesticide use by 50%.

• Decreasing fertiliser use by 20%. 

• 25% of farmland will be under organic farming by 2030. 

These policies aim for a more sustainable and diverse agricultural future.

HOW to support regenerative agriculture? 

Now let’s look at some ways in which you can bring regenerative agriculture to your home: 

Opt for regenerative or organic produce

Regenerative practices go beyond the scope of organic farming. 

ORGANIC VS REGENERATIVE PRODUCE

While organic farming avoids synthetic chemicals and pesticides, regenerative agriculture focuses on holistic land management. Regenerative agriculture aims to remove chemical inputs, improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and restore degraded ecosystems. 

CERTIFICATION

The EU market still needs a standardised labelling system and certification regulation for regenerative produce. However, some organisations, such as “A Greener World” in the US, Canada, UK and South Africa, and the Regenerative Organic Alliance (ROA), offer certifications like Regenerative Organic Certification (ROC) for regenerative organic produce. 

Despite the absence of a regulated labelling system, you can spot the regenerative produce by looking for labels like "regenerative" or "sustainably sourced" and reading the product’s fine print. These labels indicate a commitment to eco-friendly farming. Additionally, when you encounter any label claiming regenerative practices, dig into the stories behind it.

Also, check local farms or home growers' produce to gain insights into their farming practices and source your produce from them. Whether you opt for regenerative or organic produce, it's a huge step in bringing environment-friendly options into your home.

Read more about Organic Produce →, Organic Seals →, and where to Shop Sustainable Food →.

Practise regenerative gardening 

Practice regenerative gardening in your backyard, on your balcony, and when Shopping for Flowers and Plants →. Preserve invertebrates, fungi, and decomposers for healthier Soil → and plants.

Here are some tips for you to consider:

• Use compost to add missing nutrients and improve soil structure.

• Plant a variety of crops for colours, flavours, and biodiversity.

• Say no to synthetic pesticides; choose natural alternatives.

• Plan planting times to ensure continuous growth.

These simple steps make your garden thrive while being kind to the environment.
Learn more about sustainable Gardening → practices and how to support Pollinators →.  

Educate yourself & others 

Learn about regenerative agriculture at local events and workshops.
Read books about soil, plants, and ecosystems; here are some ideas to help you get started: 

• "Dirt to Soil: One Family’s Journey into Regenerative Agriculture", by Gabe Brown

• "The Soil Will Save Us: How Scientists, Farmers, and Foodies Are Healing the Soil to Save the Planet", by Kristin Ohlson

• "Growing a Revolution: Bringing Our Soil Back to Life", by David R. Montgomery

• “Aufbäumen gegen die Dürre” - by Stefan Schwarzer, Ute Scheub 

Explore blog articles from websites such as 

• European Conservation Agriculture Federation (ECAF)

• Regeneration International

• Rodale Institute

Share what you learn with friends and family to spread awareness. If you find some local farms, share them within your community.
And remember, vote! Your voice counts – support policies for regenerative practices. 

Learn more

Check our sources: Bibliography →