In recent years, we have increasingly heard the term regenerative agriculture as an approach capable of preserving and revitalizing soil biodiversity and the health of the planet. However, isn’t this precisely what organic farming promotes? What is the difference, if any? Are we dealing with a rebranding of something that already exists or are we really dealing with a truly innovative proposal?
Let’s go by parts: organic agriculture has prioritized from the beginning the health of the soil, promoting soil fertility and biodiversity of the planet. In addition, organic agriculture has a series of regulations governing production that must be complied with to obtain the organic or sustainable label. In this sense, regenerative agriculture maintains a focus on aspects that organic agriculture already contemplates.
It could be said that regenerative agriculture represents a natural evolution of organic farming. However, in the absence of a universal certification standard or regulations governing production processes, it does not seem to make much sense to deviate from a hallmark that is already committed to recovering the health of the planet and the soil in favor of a new concept that seems more the fruit of certain organizations with specific interests.
In the absence of proper certification for regenerative agriculture, many conventional agricultural companies use this label as a greenwashing tactic .
We remind you that the principles of organic farming are as follows:
- Soil health
- Promotion of biological cycles
- Crop diversity
- Conservation of natural resources
- Animal welfare
- Non-use of GMOs
How do they really differ from what regenerative agriculture proposes?
While it is true that this is a term that is being used to redefine some practices, regenerative agriculture goes back to aspects such as the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers under the pretext of the search for soil regeneration.
In this sense, it is important to understand that all methods used in organic farming are designed to regenerate and preserve natural resources, which inherently makes it a regenerative approach. However, not all agricultural methods that focus on the regeneration of ecosystems comply with the principles of organic farming. Therefore, while organic farming embraces regeneration as part of its philosophy, not all regenerative farming is organic.
There is no doubt of the importance of continuing to explore new mechanisms and tools that promote the health of the planet without harming the environment. Keeping abreast of the latest research allows us to move towards a horizon of sustainability; however, organic certification already represents the beacon that guides us in this direction.
Let’s not forget that, through this seal, the commitment to environmentally friendly practices is recognized and a path towards environmental preservation is consolidated. So, you know, when in doubt, always look for the green leaf.
