Major food companies are partnering with farmers to promote sustainable agriculture and reduce carbon emissions. The companies, including General Mills, Kellogg’s, and Unilever, are supporting farmers who adopt regenerative agriculture practices that improve soil health and capture carbon in the soil, as Meg Wilcox explains in an article published by Genetic Literacy Project (GLP).
These practices, such as no-till farming, cover crops, and organic amendments, help build soil health and increase crop yields. They also improve water retention and resistance to pests and diseases. Jason Johnson of Stonyfield Organic demonstrated the use of the AgriCORE soil sampling tool at Dostie Farm in Maine.
Measuring the effectiveness of regenerative practices is a challenge, but companies are working together to develop standardized metrics and monitoring tools. Some critics argue that the focus on carbon sequestration may detract from other environmental concerns, but proponents say that regenerative agriculture can address multiple challenges simultaneously.
“Healthy soils are essential for achieving net zero emissions and meeting global food security needs,” said Dr. Jennifer Moore-Kucera, a soil scientist at the University of California, Davis. “By investing in regenerative agriculture, food companies can play a crucial role in mitigating climate change while also improving soil health and biodiversity.”
As consumer demand for sustainable products continues to grow, it’s likely that more food companies will join the effort to promote regenerative agriculture. With the combined might of industry leaders like General Mills, Kellogg’s, and Unilever behind them, farmers can make meaningful strides in protecting soil carbon and fighting climate change.
Source: Genetic Literacy Project (GLP). Read the full article here
Photo: Credit Gabriel Jimenez on Unsplash
