Many global food giants are currently taking steps to promote agriculture that regenerates land instead of damaging it. Regenerative agriculture is agriculture that restores degraded soil, improves pollinator biodiversity, and enhances the ability of soil to capture carbon.
Business actions are being taken ahead of such regulation as the European Green Deal that will require food companies to transition to agriculture that is “fair, healthy and environmentally-friendly” as part of its Farm to Fork Strategy. Industry certifications are also taking hold, leading to self-regulation. From PepsiCo to Unilever to Danone to General Mills, current agricultural shifts of millions of acres of crops towards regenerative methods are the first steps in promoting regenerative relationships with the land.
Business actions from these food giants show there are endless opportunities for companies to positively impact land system change. Such actions include:
- Partnering with farmers and suppliers to bring sustainable, regenerative agricultural practices to millions of acres of crops and transform food systems
- Collaborating with non-profit organisations such as Kiss the Ground where farmers are taught how to increase the profitability and productivity of their farms while decreasing costs through regenerating the soil and enhancing resiliency
Scaling these initiatives can increase yields and revenues while securing the long-term value of land, minimise emissions, preserve water, revitalise vulnerable communities, respond to consumer trends, and reduce the use of toxic fertilisers. Although there is much work to be done to reach fully regenerative agriculture, big food companies are taking the necessary first steps.