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Regenerative Agriculture in Germany: A Path to Sustainable Futures

Regenerative Agriculture in Germany: A Path to Sustainable Futures

Growing challenges due to environmental degradation, climate change, and the need for sustainable food systems, regenerative agriculture emerges as a beacon of hope. Germany, known for its progressive environmental policies and commitment to organic farming, is also at the forefront of exploring and adopting regenerative agricultural practices. This blog delves into the concept, current state, challenges, and future potential of regenerative agriculture in Germany, offering insights into how this approach can transform the agricultural landscape and contribute to a more sustainable future.

 

Understanding Regenerative Agriculture

Regenerative agriculture is more than just a farming method; it’s a holistic approach to land management that aims to restore and enhance ecosystem health. Unlike organic agriculture, which primarily focusses on avoiding synthetic inputs, regenerative agriculture emphasises the regeneration of natural resources, soil health, and biodiversity. It employs a variety of practices, such as cover cropping, crop rotation, no-till farming, and the use of compost and mulch to improve soil structure, increase water retention, and enhance biodiversity.

 

The Current State of Regenerative Agriculture in Germany

In Germany, organic farming has seen significant growth, with nearly 37,000 farms operating organically by the end of 2022, covering over 1.8 million hectares. However, the prevalence of regenerative agriculture is less clear, with only about 50,000 hectares managed according to regenerative principles. Despite the lack of uniform certifications or standards for regenerative agriculture, there is a growing interest amongst farmers and organisations dedicated to promoting these practices.

 

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Although there are no specific legal standards for regenerative agriculture in Germany, several laws and regulations support sustainable land management practices. The Federal Nature Conservation Act and the Federal Forestry Act aim to protect nature and promote sustainable forest management, while the Fertiliser Act regulates the use of fertilisers to prevent water pollution. At the EU level, the planned Nature Restoration Law could further accelerate the transition to regenerative agriculture by requiring member states to restore damaged habitats.

 

Promotion and Support

Various German organisations and initiatives are at the forefront of promoting regenerative agriculture. The Federal Office for Agriculture and Food and the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture advocate for sustainable and resource-efficient agriculture. Nature conservation associations like Nature Conservation Association Germany and German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation offer support and advice to farmers interested in transitioning to regenerative agriculture. Additionally, organisations like Soil Alliance e.V. and Reconstructive agriculture e.V. provide educational resources and organise workshops to inform farmers about the benefits and practices of regenerative agriculture.

 

Challenges and Obstacles

Despite the growing interest and support for regenerative agriculture, several challenges hinder its widespread adoption. The most significant barriers include the difficulty of changing existing farming practices, financial constraints, lack of information, and scepticism about the benefits. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including financial incentives, educational programs, and policy support.

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The Role of Technology and Innovation

Regenerative agriculture is not just about traditional farming methods; it also embraces technology and innovation to enhance ecological health and natural resource management. Precision agricultural tools, for example, can help optimise crop management and reduce resource waste. Additionally, research in areas such as soil microbiology and plant genetics can provide valuable insights into improving soil health and crop resilience.

 

Economic Viability and Market Opportunities

One of the concerns often raised about regenerative agriculture is its economic viability, particularly for young farmers. While some see potential in the market for sustainably sourced products, others remain neutral or uncertain. The economic feasibility of regenerative agriculture depends on various factors, including the scale of operation, market demand, and the availability of financial support.

 

Prospects

The future of regenerative agriculture in Germany looks promising, despite the challenges. The growing awareness amongst farmers, the support from organisations and policymakers, and the potential environmental and economic benefits make a compelling case for its adoption. As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, regenerative agriculture offers a path to sustainable food production, soil health, and biodiversity conservation.

 

 

Conclusion

Regenerative agriculture in Germany represents a significant step towards sustainable land management and food production. While it faces challenges, the potential benefits for farmers, the environment, and society make it a worthwhile endeavour. With continued support from governments, organisations, and the agricultural community, regenerative agriculture can play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future for Germany and beyond.

How Regenerative Practices Are Transforming Croatian Farming

How Regenerative Practices Are Transforming Croatian Farming

Croatia is witnessing a transformative shift in its agricultural practices, with regenerative agriculture taking center stage as a sustainable solution to modern farming challenges. In recent years, the concept of regenerative agriculture has gained traction in Croatia, driven by a desire to restore soil health, enhance biodiversity, and combat climate change. This approach emphasizes practices that not only sustain but also improve the land for future generations.

 

One of the most notable examples of regenerative agriculture in Croatia is Zrno eko imanje (click here to learn more), an organic farm managed by David Pejić. Since 1988, the farm has prioritized soil health by avoiding artificial fertilizers and chemical pesticides. Pejić emphasizes that the goal of regenerative organic agriculture is to create a holistic system that allows for control over the entire production cycle, from farm to fork.

Zrno eko imanje cultivates over 60 varieties of organic vegetables, fruits, legumes, and cereals. The farm employs bio-intensive gardening techniques and a five-crop rotation system, which includes cover crops and green fertilization. This method not only promotes soil health but also enhances crop diversity and yields. Pejić’s philosophy centers on valuing human labor and ensuring high-quality agricultural products while restoring the environment.

 

The farm utilizes various innovative practices for weed and pest control, such as mechanical cultivation, deep compost mulching, and anti-insect netting. Water management techniques, including drop-to-drop irrigation and filtration technology, further contribute to sustainable practices. Additionally, Zrno eko imanje operates a food processing facility and an on-site bakery, producing organic products that reflect local traditions while minimizing waste.

In 2013, Pejić expanded the farm’s outreach by establishing a 100% organic vegan bistro in Zagreb and offering educational visits to share knowledge about bio-intensive organic production and crop rotation. His efforts were recognized in 2022 when he received the European Commission award for “Best European Organic Farmer.”

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One of the pivotal events promoting regenerative agriculture in Croatia is the Regenerate Europe Conference (learn more by clicking here), held annually in Skradin. This conference brings together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and practitioners to share best practices and innovative solutions in regenerative agriculture, tourism, and more. The event aims to bridge visionary ideas with actionable strategies to foster ecological and community resilience (Regenerate Europe Conference 2024).

 

Organizations like the Croatian Regenerative Agriculture Center (CRAC) and Terra Meera Center for Regeneration are also making significant contributions to the regenerative movement. CRAC, established in 2021, promotes holistic management techniques among farmers, focusing on sustainable livestock management and soil conservation. Meanwhile, Terra Meera is dedicated to creating biodiverse ecosystems through local agriculture, further supporting the movement towards sustainability.

 

Several key practices in regenerative agriculture are being implemented across Croatia. These include crop rotation, cover cropping, and holistic grazing management. These methods aim to restore soil health, increase biodiversity, and enhance water retention in the soil. For example, cover cropping involves planting specific crops that improve soil structure and nutrient content, while holistic grazing allows for the natural fertilization and aeration of soil through managed livestock movements.

 

As Croatia embraces regenerative agriculture, education plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of this movement. The REVIVER Project, alongside initiatives from organizations like CRAC and educational farms, is paving the way for a new generation of farmers equipped with the skills and knowledge to promote sustainability. By prioritizing regenerative agriculture education, Croatia is not only enhancing its agricultural practices but also contributing to a healthier environment and a more sustainable future.

Regenerative agriculture lessons from Estonia

Regenerative agriculture lessons from Estonia

In this article we present you with the key findings about agriculture in Estonia, which were collected and presented within wider research implemented as part of the REVIVER Project, standing for “Regenerative Agriculture for Vocational Education EU + Africa,”.

 

Trends in scientific research suggest that one priority of regenerative agriculture is providing the nation with access to sustainable, homegrown food. This lines up with historic long-term strategy dating back to 1995 where one main aim of planning was to ‘supply Estonian consumers with healthy food’. As such, reports on the adaption to climate change in the region suggest that the country has an incredibly low percentage of fallow land, and a high percentage of organic farming practices compared to the rest of the European Union. A report by the EITFood.eu found that as of 2014, 15.7% of Estonian farmland constituted organic farming, the third highest share of any EU country with a strong emphasis on high nature value. A Eurostat report in this overview notes that as of 2016 Estonia had the highest percentage of zero tillage in Europe, contributing to minimizing soil disturbance. The report also lists a number of target values and indicators for successful regenerative agriculture including healthy soil, sufficient food production, clean environment, rich biodiversity, climate change mitigation, fair income. Development of biodiversity monitoring shows an increased awareness across Europe.

 

 

Cattle farming and sustainability

 

In addition, cattle farming has become an area of focus with research being carried out on the impacts of holistic management, a process of alternating short-term grazing periods, and carbon sequestration. As a major emitter of greenhouse gases, cattle farming and the sustainability of livestock and wildlife has become a priority with improved vegetation composition, cover and soil health noted as important factors. Demonstrations on such topics suggest that lack of machinery (particularly seed drills and intercropping equipment) poses a serious threat to the implantation of regenerative farming practice and a potential financial penalty for such endeavours suggests that policy needs to be adjusted to accommodate.

Regenerative agriculture lessons from Estonia 1
Regenerative agriculture lessons from Estonia 2

Forest and farming landscapes

 

In 2020 LIFE-IP project “Comprehensive management of forest and farming landscapes to improve the conservation status of Natura 2000 habitats and species” (ForEst&FarmLand) was launched, involving all key players from universities, forestry sector and nature conservation as well as NGOs to jointly protect and restore Estonian landscapes and ecosystems and to improve the condition of the species and habitats in Estonian forests and agricultural lands. The project collaborated with Estonian farmers to reconcile food production, biodiversity, and healthy soils, and to identify agro-ecological techniques for the conditions in Estonia, which will enable the development of more expedient agricultural support schemes in the future. A number of conservation practices in agricultural land were recommended as a result of the scheme:

  • converting parts of cultivated land to extensively used pasture
  • improving ecological conditions of field edges
  • leaving larkspur patches in winter crop
  • avoiding fertilizing, ploughing, and poisoning edge areas
  • turning manure into soul
  • adjustment of the grazing load by alternating the use of different paddocks
  • avoiding farming in areas prone to erosion.

 

 

To learn more about the policies in Estonia, and also results of the survey implemented with farmers in Estonia; check the Research document available on the button below.

 

Research involves analysis of the current practices and policies from Ghana, Kenya, Germany, Tanzania, Croatia, and Estonia.

Read the research document

Cultivating Sustainable Solutions: Insights from the REVIVER Project Conference in Winneba, Ghana

Cultivating Sustainable Solutions: Insights from the REVIVER Project Conference in Winneba, Ghana

In a three-day gathering from February 21st to 23rd, 2024, stakeholders, researchers, and enthusiasts in regenerative agriculture convened in Winneba, Ghana. Hosted by University of Education Winneba, this conference of the REVIVER Project, an initiative co-funded by the European Union, was a crucial moment for sustainable agricultural practices in Vocational Educational and Training to move forward. With project partners from Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Croatia, Estonia, and Germany, the event served as a cross-cultural exchange and collaboration, aligning with the project’s objectives of promoting regenerative agriculture techniques across diverse agricultural landscapes.

 

 

Sharing REVIVER knowledge and understanding

 

The conference commenced with various keynote addresses by our Ghanaian hosts, all of them underscoring the urgent need for regenerative practices amidst escalating environmental challenges and emphasising the REVIVER Project’s role in positive change. The day unfolded with insightful panel discussions featuring representatives from each partner country, delving into the unique challenges and opportunities for regenerative agriculture in their respective regions, with a special focus on Sub-Saharan Africa. Diverse perspectives were shared to inform our research and educational resources in development.

 

The second day of the conference witnessed a deep dive into the scientific side of regenerative agriculture. Workshops were led by researchers and practitioners in regenerative agriculture. Participants looked into methodologies for soil regeneration, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience, directly addressing the project’s objectives of promoting sustainable farming practices.

 

 

Field visits enriching our REVIVER partnership mutual understanding of needs and practices

 

One highlight was a field visit to local farms practicing regenerative principles, providing attendees with tangible examples of success stories and practical implementation strategies, further reinforcing the conference’s emphasis on bridging science with on-the-ground practice.

 

The conference concluded with a visit to Kakum National Park, a pristine tropical rainforest nestled in the heart of Ghana. Guided by knowledgeable park rangers, participants embarked on a breathtaking canopy walk, immersing themselves in the rich biodiversity and ecological wonders of the region. The lush greenery, vibrant birdlife, and tranquil surroundings served as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations.

Moments from the conference
Visiting resources of the host
Moments from the conference
Visiting resources of the host
Moments from the conference
Visiting resources of the host
Our consortium
Visiting resources of the host

The exchange of culture is an exchange of ideas and mutual vision

 

Continuing the journey of exploration, attendees then travelled to Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history and symbolism. As they walked through the haunting corridors and somber dungeons of the castle, participants reflected on the dark legacy of slavery and colonialism, recognising the enduring legacy of injustice and oppression that continues to shape our world today.

Yet, amidst the solemnity of Cape Coast Castle, there was also a sense of resilience and hope. Just as the forests of Kakum stand tall despite the challenges they face, so too do communities around the world strive to build a more just, equitable, and sustainable future.

 

The REVIVER Project conference served as a beacon of light in this journey, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to collaborate, innovate, and inspire change.

 

As participants bid farewell to Ghana and returned to their homes, they carried with them not only memories of a transformative conference but also a renewed commitment to the principles of regenerative agriculture and environmental stewardship.

Partners’ online meeting for the upcoming research and conference in Ghana

Partners’ online meeting for the upcoming research and conference in Ghana

Exciting News! Yesterday, our REVIVER project partners had an engaging online meeting to discuss the upcoming research and conference in Ghana, set to take place in February 2024.

But what exactly is “𝓡𝓮𝓰𝓮𝓷𝓮𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓿𝓮 𝓐𝓰𝓻𝓲𝓬𝓾𝓵𝓽𝓾𝓻𝓮”? It’s an approach to farming that focuses on enriching soil health, reducing environmental impact, and promoting sustainable practices. It’s the 𝒇𝒖𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 of agriculture!

REVIVER project, an erasmus plus project funded by the 𝓔𝓾𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓪𝓷 𝓒𝓸𝓶𝓶𝓲𝓼𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷, has three key objectives:
1) Foster international collaboration between Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa.
2) Develop a groundbreaking vocational curriculum in 𝓻𝓮𝓰𝓮𝓷𝓮𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓿𝓮 𝓪𝓰𝓻𝓲𝓬𝓾𝓵𝓽𝓾𝓻𝓮.
3) Strengthen the connection between 𝓮𝓭𝓾𝓬𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓵𝓪𝓫𝓸𝓻 𝓶𝓪𝓻𝓴𝓮𝓽, empowering farmers and agricultural stakeholders.

Stay tuned for more updates as we work towards a greener and more sustainable agricultural future!

REVIVER Project: Bridging Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa through Regenerative Agriculture Education

REVIVER Project: Bridging Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa through Regenerative Agriculture Education

The REVIVER Project, standing for “Regenerative Agriculture for Vocational Education EU + Africa,” marks a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing agricultural practices and vocational education across Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa. It is an Erasmus+ Project, Capacity building in the field of Vocational education and training. This 24-month project, commenced on December 1, 2023, and concluding on November 30, 2025, embodies a synergy of international cooperation and educational innovation.

 

Project Overview

The REVIVER Project is designed to establish a dynamic educational program focusing on regenerative agriculture and eco-sustainability. It brings together six organizations from Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa to create a vocational curriculum tailored to the unique geographic and climatic conditions of these regions. This curriculum aims to transition from traditional to regenerative agriculture, thereby influencing the enhancement of soil quality, food security, and climate resilience.

 

The project emphasizes three key dimensions:The project emphasizes three key dimensions:

  1. International Knowledge Sharing: Building a bridge between European expertise in regenerative agriculture and the needs of Sub-Saharan Africa, where such practices are particularly needed.
  2. Vocational Curriculum Development: Strengthening vocational education and training (VET) services across six participating countries, the project aims to modernize agricultural education and align it with regional needs.
  3. Labor Market Connection: Improving employability and entrepreneurial opportunities in the agricultural sector by equipping learners with relevant skills for the green economy.

 

Partner Organizations

  • Pannonia Consulting (Croatia): Specializing in business development for young farmers and digital educational tools, Pannonia plays a pivotal role in curriculum development and project management.
  • Kua Zone Innovation College Limited (Kenya): With expertise in digital learning and agribusiness, Kua Zone is instrumental in digitizing the curriculum and fostering cross-border learning.
  • University of Education, Winneba (Ghana): Renowned for its contribution to educational policy and development, UEW will co-lead in curriculum development.
  • Outside Media & Knowledge (Germany): A marketing specialist focusing on inclusive and digital learning strategies, will lead the dissemination and visibility efforts.
  • APEX Agribusiness Academy (Tanzania): Leveraging a vast network in the agri-food sector, AAA will contribute significantly to the project’s sustainability networks.
  • Learning Library (Estonia): An edu-tech company proficient in digitalizing learning, they will co-lead in developing e-modules and e-tools.
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The Sphere of Regenerative Agriculture, AI-generated.

Regional Priorities and Impact

The REVIVER Project aligns with regional priorities in Ghana, Kenya, and Tanzania, contributing to green growth, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience. By introducing regenerative agriculture practices, the project addresses climate change, land quality deterioration, and strengthens vocational education in line with EU strategies.

 

The REVIVER Project stands as a testament to the power of international collaboration and education in addressing global challenges. Its innovative approach promises not only to transform agricultural practices but also to foster a new generation of environmentally conscious and skilled agricultural professionals.

 

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.