Have you ever heard of regenerative agriculture? It is a term that has featured prominently in recent environmental discussions, especially since being emphasised in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report on “Climate Change and Land.” Regenerative agriculture is a sustainable land management practice that can be instrumental in building the resilience of agroecosystems. But what exactly does this mean? This article dives deep into the subject.
Defining Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative agriculture is a farming system with a holistic focus. Its principles revolve around soil health, food quality, the improvement of biodiversity, water quality, and air quality. Achieving these goals involves implementing numerous strategies, including reducing the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, minimising tillage, integrating livestock, and using cover crops.
Primarily, regenerative agriculture adheres to four main principles:
- Minimise soil disturbance through conservation tillage: This involves limiting the use of heavy machinery that can disrupt the natural composition and layout of the soil.
- Diversify crops to replenish nutrients and disrupt pest and disease lifecycles: By introducing a variety of crops, farmers can naturally refresh the land’s nutrients and deter pests and diseases.
- Retain soil cover using cover crops: Protective plants can help preserve and nourish the soil while simultaneously preventing erosion.
- Integrate livestock, which adds manure to the soil and serves as a source of carbon sinks: The introduction of animals to the farming ecosystem brings about the benefits of natural fertilisation and carbon sequestration.
The Necessity of Regenerative Agriculture
Why is there a need for regenerative agriculture? The answer lies in our current agricultural practices, which have led to significant soil degradation and loss. Some international scientists suggest that we may not have enough soil left in the world to feed ourselves within the next 50 years. Additionally, soil fertility and biodiversity are experiencing a continual decline globally.
Regenerative agriculture proposes a solution to these problems. This method improves soil health by implementing practices that increase soil organic matter, the presence of living organisms, and biodiversity. It also enhances the soil’s water-holding capacity and its ability to sequester carbon.
Beyond improving the soil, regenerative agriculture has additional benefits. It aids in the aggregation of soil, facilitating better water infiltration, retention, and nutrient cycling. Furthermore, it reduces erosion and provides habitat and food for diverse species. In short, regenerative agriculture moves beyond sustainability; it seeks to overhaul and improve the current agricultural system.
Previous Questions on Similar Subjects in UPSC Civil Services Examination
The significance of sustainable farming systems such as regenerative agriculture has been highlighted in previous UPSC Civil Services Examination questions. For instance, in 2019, an examination question asked, “How far is Integrated Farming System (IFS) helpful in sustaining agricultural production?”
In 2022, another question posed was, “What is the Integrated Farming System? How is it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India?”
Understanding the principles and benefits of sustainable and holistic farming practices such as regenerative agriculture can be vital in answering such questions. Ultimately, the push towards regenerative agriculture signifies a broader movement towards more sustainable and beneficial use of our land resources.
Source: DownToEarth
