Regenerative Agriculture in Our Vision
Regenerative agriculture is an approach that prioritizes both productivity and quality, while also providing ecosystem services like soil and water restoration, biodiversity preservation, and carbon sequestration. It goes beyond mere sustainability goals. In practice, regenerative farms use fewer inputs, maintain stable yields, are more resilient to climate extremes, and have higher land value, all whilst maintaining or surpassing conventional yields. It's a strategic, value-building approach for long-term farm success.
Adaptive Solutions Tailoring Regenerative Agriculture to Every Farm
Regenerative agriculture is characterised by its outcome-based approach, prioritising results over rigid practices or regulations. The emphasis on outcomes stems from the concept of context-specificity. Regenerative agriculture recognises that the ideal practices vary depending on the distinct landscape, crops, constraints, and priorities of each farm operation. The core of this methodology lies in selecting appropriate Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for monitoring and the right tools for measuring these indicators. Every agricultural commodity and bioregion will feature a distinct combination of KPIs and monitoring protocols.
Visual Guide Navigating the Regenerative Transition
Ecological Benefits of Regenerative Adoption
Enhancing Soil Health
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Higher nutrient cycling → lower use of fertilisers
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Higher microbiological (MO) diversity and activity → improved plant health and nutrient cycling
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Higher organic matter and MO activity → lower soil erosion
Reviving Water Cycles
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Lower evaporation from covered soil → Lower use of irrigation water
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Higher organic matter in the soil → higher soil water retention capacity and lower irrigation use
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Lower use of fertilisers and pesticides → lower costs and lower residues entering waterways
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Protection of riparian areas with riparian buffers → lower risks of leaching nutrients into waterways
Increasing Biodiversity
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Higher predator insect populations
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Less pressure from insect pests
Transition Costs Budgeting for the Transition
Presented here is a graph illustrating the typical gross income difference between conventional agriculture (depicted as the baseline) and regenerative agriculture (depicted as the blue line) over a 30-year period within an intensive almond system. This graph reflects the 'J-curve' concept, showing an initial increase in costs, succeeded by a decrease in costs in the medium and long term. With the right knowledge, experience, and a well-structured transition process, these benefits can be achieved at a reduced overall cost.
Our analysis suggests that, while regenerative agriculture may require an initial investment, this investment yields long-term benefits. The economic advantages become even more apparent when considering future risks, such as droughts and extreme climate events, regulatory pressures, and the opportunities presented by marketing regenerative products at a premium.
