What is Regenerative Agriculture

Agriculture has a significant environmental footprint, accounting for approximately one-third of global land use, while food production contributes around 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions. With the anticipated population growth, increasing per capita demand, and rising global food needs, more sustainable ways of producing food are essential. As a result, regenerative agriculture (RA) has gained significant attention from producers, retailers, researchers, consumers, policymakers, and mainstream media over the years.

There are differing opinions about the definitions of regenerative agriculture, and despite widespread interest in the practice, there is no legal or regulatory definition of the term. However, the general consensus is that RA is a holistic farming system that seeks to restore soil health by increasing carbon sequestration, fostering nutrient cycling, and promoting overall ecosystem well-being.

How is Regenerative Agriculture Different?

Regenerative agriculture is often compared to organic and conservation agriculture, but there are key differences:

• Organic Agriculture: Primarily focuses on eliminating synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, with strict certification standards such as the adherence to stringent record-keeping and annual inspections by regulatory bodies (e.g., USDA Organic, EU Organic, South African Organic Standards). However, it does not always emphasize soil regeneration or ecosystem restoration.
• Conservation Agriculture: Prioritizes minimal soil disturbance, cover cropping, and crop rotation to prevent degradation, but it does not necessarily incorporate livestock or aim for long-term ecosystem regeneration.
• Regenerative Agriculture: Goes beyond sustainability by actively improving soil health, increasing biodiversity, and enhancing ecosystem resilience while integrating techniques from both organic and conservation agriculture.

Key Principles of Regenerative Agriculture

Figure 1: Daisy Wood, 2023

1. Understand Context of Your Farm Operation – Every farm is different, and management practices should be adapted to local climate, soil conditions, and available resources.
2. Minimise Soil Disturbance – Avoid excessive tilling to preserve soil structure, improve water retention, and enhance microbial life.
3. Maximise Crop Diversity – Planting a variety of crops improves soil health, enhances pest resistance, and supports biodiversity.
4. Keep the Soil Covered – Using cover crops and mulching prevents erosion, conserves moisture, and improves organic matter content.
5. Maintain Living Roots Year-Round – Keeping roots in the soil as long as possible fosters carbon sequestration and improves soil microbial activity.
6. Integrate Livestock – Managed grazing enhances soil fertility, promotes biodiversity, and reduces reliance on synthetic fertilizers.

Why It Matters

• For Farmers: Healthier soil leads to better yields and lower input costs over time.
• For the Planet: More carbon is stored in the soil, and biodiversity is increased.
• For Consumers: More nutritious food and stronger local food systems.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning! Over the next few months, we’ll explore how regenerative agriculture can be applied in South Africa, the role of technology, and the business case behind it. Stay tuned for practical insights and local farmer success stories.

Want to learn more? Follow along as we dive deeper into regenerative agriculture!