Anyone who knows me knows that one of my favourite feel-good movies is The Biggest Little Farm. It’s the story of two city dwellers and their dog who left the bright lights in search of a better way of life and ended up building this incredible, ecological, biodiverse farm bursting with life and produce. All without using chemicals. Theirs is a story of humans working in harmony with the environment and being better off for it in all aspects of sustainability – economically, socially, and environmentally.
However, for those of you not dreaming of farm life, you’re probably wondering what regenerative agriculture has to do with you and small businesses that aren’t connected to the agriculture industry. But here’s the thing, we’re all connected to it. We all eat and drink, and we all consume therefore we are part of the system.
Conventional methods of farming that form industrial farming are compromising the resilience of our ecosystems, but responsible food companies are championing ways of farming that improve them (ft.com)
What is regenerative agriculture?
Regenerative agriculture is nothing new – it’s been used for hundreds if not thousands of years and is developed around the use of techniques that work with the soil rather than ‘depleting and treating’ it. The overall aim is to maintain soil health which captures carbon back into the soil.
Healthy soil is a significant carbon sink for our planet so it is crucial that we pay attention to it’s health. And let’s not forget that the health of our soil leads to the health of the food that we consume and the community in which we live.
With the world’s population multiplying and intensive farming depleting the soil, regenerative farming is seen as key to meeting this rising demand with the planet and the long-term view in mind. The FT.com reported that farming is estimated to currently account for about a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions and erodes 24 billion tonnes of topsoil a year. This is equivalent to an area the size of Greece (EIT Food). Even more horrifying is that European farming as it currently stands can only support 60 more harvests until crops start to fail and a change of direction is necessary. Bearing in mind that European legislation is stricter in chemical use than other parts of the world, it would not be unreasonable to assume that the US and Canada face a similar dilemma.
So let’s break down other reasons why regenerative farming matters:
Healing the Earth: Regenerative agriculture goes beyond sustainability; it aims to restore and enhance the health of the land. By focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and ecological balance, it contributes to healing the earth from the impacts of conventional farming practices.
Long-term sustainability: In the face of climate change and environmental challenges, regenerative practices offer a resilient and sustainable approach. These practices enhance soil fertility, water retention, and overall ecosystem health, ensuring long-term viability for agriculture.
Economic Resilience: For businesses, regenerative agriculture is an investment in economic resilience – whether you are part of this industry or purchasing from it. Healthy soils have better biomes which produces better crops, healthy soils and cover crops are drought and flood resistant, healthy soils that produce flora and fauna are carbon sinks and replenish the water table. All of this is to say, that utility costs are generally lower.
In the agriculture industry? Here are some benefits for your business if you are in the agriculture industry:
Increased Productivity and Profitability: Studies show that regenerative agriculture practices can lead to increased productivity. The Rodale Institute's research indicates that regenerative practices can match or exceed the yield of conventional agriculture while providing environmental benefits.
Input cost savings: Businesses adopting regenerative practices often witness reduced reliance on external inputs like fertilizers and pesticides. This not only cuts costs but also minimises the environmental impact associated with these inputs.
Market differentiation and customer appeal: As consumer awareness grows, there's an increasing demand for products grown with regenerative practices. Businesses adopting these practices can differentiate themselves in the market and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
But what about if you are not in the industry and you are an end consumer? Why does this matter?
Personal Health. Most will agree that what goes into your body is fundamental to how you feel, how you move and how physically healthy you are. Nutrient-dense produce from regenerative farms often translates to healthier diets for individuals as our bodies are getting what they need rather than empty calories. And statistics show that a healthy diet leads to a healthier lifestyle and less sickness. For businesses, this means fewer sick days, greater engagement and success.
Community and Connection: As a business, engaging with local regenerative farms fosters a sense of community and provides them an income which gives them a licence to operate. Too often, these farms do not receive the same governmental financial support as ‘traditional’ chemically driven farming methods so they rely on local support. Businesses and individuals who support regenerative farms will be active participants in supporting the local ecosystems, preserving farmland and strengthening connections with local businesses. Not to mention reducing the GHG emissions of their food.
Climate Impact: Choosing to support regenerative farms or even those with eco-friendly practices contributes to the broader effort to combat climate change.
How to get stated
1. Educate yourself and your team. Learn about regenerative agriculture and local farmers and cooperatives that exist in your area. Reach out to them.
2. Audit and Assess. What do you currently do that you could change? Do you in source any food products (cakes, sandwiches, fruit, drinks etc.) that could come from any local suppliers identified in step 1?
3. Collaborate with Experts. If regenerative farming really resonates, reach out to some experts in the field to find out more and maybe even start your own regenerative garden.
4. Take action. It’s one thing to understand but it’s another to do. Make sustainable choices – support local farmers and suppliers and look out for products with eco-friendly certifications.
In conclusion, regenerative farming is more than just about organic produce. It’s transformative and has the impact of shaping the future of our planet and how we live. For businesses, adopting a sustainability mindset it’s an investment in future resilience and their own success as it will create a ripple effect, contributing to a heathier planet for generations to come.
About the Author:
Kathryn is a highly regarded sustainability and human resources professional with nearly two decades of progressive experience within a Fortune 50 organization. Seen as a trusted adviser, she serves as a valuable resource for business leaders seeking to cultivate forward-thinking, resilient practices in alignment with the rigorous standards of environmental, social and governance standards set by local and global bodies. Contact her here
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