A revolution is sweeping Europe's farms: can it save agriculture?
19 hours ago
- #Regenerative Agriculture
- #Climate Change
- #Sustainable Farming
- Regenerative agriculture is gaining momentum in Europe as a method to combat climate change and improve farm profitability.
- Farmers like Ruben Jorge in Portugal are adopting practices such as cover crops, minimal tilling, and reduced pesticide use to enhance soil health and biodiversity.
- Europe faces significant agricultural challenges due to climate change, including soil degradation, water scarcity, and increased wildfires, with potential economic losses exceeding €65 billion annually by 2100.
- About 2% of European farms are fully regenerative, with another 5-10% transitioning, according to the European Alliance for Regenerative Agriculture (EARA).
- Regenerative practices, such as crop rotation and cover crops, have shown benefits like increased biodiversity, improved water quality, and enhanced soil carbon storage.
- Despite positive trends in profitability and sustainability, long-term studies are needed to assess the effectiveness of regenerative agriculture across different regions and climates.
- The EU has ambitious policies to support sustainable agriculture, including the European Green Deal and nature-restoration laws, but implementation challenges remain.
- Farmers and advocates argue that more financial incentives and support are needed to facilitate the transition to regenerative practices.