REVITALISED FARMING SYSTEMS

Akila Wijerathna draws on agro-ecological principles to revitalise farming

Regenerative agriculture (RA) represents a transformative approach to farming. It seeks to do more than merely sustain existing land productivity levels; it aims to restore and revitalise ecosystems.

This paradigm shift in agriculture is rapidly gaining attention and support from a broad spectrum of global stakeholders that include practitioners, scientists and policy makers. It draws heavily on agro-ecological principles, and focusses on enhancing soil health, restoring biodiversity and promoting robust ecosystems.

Regenerative agriculture positions itself as an essential strategy for countering the negative impacts of conventional farming methods and climate change, by offering a holistic solution that enhances the resilience and vitality of agricultural landscapes.

Its foundational concept traces RA’s origins back to ideas first articulated by pioneers such as US organic farming expert Robert Rodale in the early 1980s. He envisioned agriculture that goes beyond sus­taina­bility, rejuvenating the soil and ecosystems holistically.

This vision evolved into what is now viewed as a viable solution to the environmental crises facing modern agriculture.

RA operates on several principles that differentiate it from traditional farming practices. These include enhancing soil fertility naturally, increasing biodiversity, improving water cycles and supporting carbon sequestration.

By focussing on natural processes, regenerative agriculture helps rebuild organic soil matter and living biodiversity in soil, which can lead to more resilient farming systems.

For instance, climate change mitigation initiative Project Drawdown highlights regenerative agriculture as a strategy capable of sequestering between 14.5 and 22 gigatons of CO2 by 2050, illustrating its potential impact on climate change mitigation.

The emphasis on biodiversity in RA is not merely about cultivating a variety of crops but also involves integrating animals into farm ecosystems to create a symbiotic relationship between all elements of the biosphere. This integration helps cycle nutrients naturally, manage pests and maintain an ecological balance without relying on chemical inputs. Such practices are beneficial to the environment, and support human health through enhanced nutritional value in food production.

Furthermore, regenerative agriculture is closely linked to the socioeconomic dimensions of sustainability.

It fosters community involvement and connects farmers directly with consumers. This promotes transparency and trust, and helps preserve local wildlife and traditions, which constitute the social fabric of rural communities.

However, the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices faces challenges. They include the need for a paradigm shift in how farmers and agricultural enterprises view land management, initial costs of transition, and a lack of universal definitions and standards in RA practices.

While some see it as a revolutionary approach to farming, others view it as a greenwashing tactic if not implemented authentically.

Internationally, RA is being recognised by agencies such as the IPCC. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change lists RA as a sustainable land management practice that can build resilience against climate change.

Meanwhile, several governments and private sector initiatives are exploring regenerative agriculture as part of their climate action strategies.

For example, US manufacturer General Mills has committed to advancing RA on one million acres of farmland by 2030, demon­strating the private sector’s growing interest in this approach.

Adopting it involves overcoming various hurdles that span economic, educational, cultural and regulatory dimensions. Financial challenges are often at the forefront with farmers facing substantial upfront costs and potential risks associated with transitioning from conventional practices.

The knowledge gap presents another barrier that requires extensive education and training to shift traditional farming mindsets to more sustainable practices. Social resistance can also impede adoption as farming communities with deep-rooted traditions may be reluctant to change established methods.

Additionally, the absence of universally accepted standards and definitions for regenerative agriculture complicates the implementation and credibility of these practices.

Since regulatory frameworks currently favour conventional agriculture, policy reform is needed to support and incentivise regenerative methods. To adopt RA effectively, strategies should include financial support, educational programmes and community engagement.

As such, regenerative agriculture is not only about growing food but also cultivating life and nurturing the land to give back more than is taken. As the concept continues to evolve and gain momentum, it holds the promise of leading to a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future.