In this article we wanted to explain what is meant by regenerative farming and how regenerative agriculture can be better than organic farming. I know it can be confusing with all these terms, there’s biodynamic (type of regenerative farming practice), organic and regenerative. And they all are very similar yet still very different.
There is a film called Kiss The Ground that explains this all in a very simple and fun way, definitely worth watching!
Regenerative farming vs. organic farming
Regenerative farming is actually very simple: it is any form of farming which improves the environment. Most importantly while growing things the soil is being regenerated the same time. This can be done by allowing different plants to grow alongside each other, by keeping living roots in the soil, by bringing grazing animals on the land and letting the soil rest at times too.
Organic farming is more about not using harmful pesticides and fertilizers. Organic farmers don’t always follow the guidelines of regenerative agriculture so there are not always animals on an organic farm or soil isn’t always so well looked after that it is on an farm following the regenerative methods.
Organic products with a Demeter certificate are the best of the best – read why in our other article Choose food products with Demeter certificate.
Regenerative Organic by Patagonia
The best option of them all is regenerative organic as it is the highest organic standard there is. It supports people and animals and aims to restore the health of our planet.
We love Patagonia and are using their clothing for the whole family. Patagonia is a super sustainable brand who also helped found a new nonprofit, called the Regenerative Organic Alliance. The purpose of this alliance is to own and manage the Regenerative Organic Certified™ (ROC) program. Buying Patagonia’s clothing from the Regenerative Organic range is one of the most ecological things you can do (when buying clothing).
Why grazing animals can improve the health of the soil?
Grazing animals can improve the health of the soil as they walk around and eat the plants. The animals are always moved from one section or area to another after some time to let the previous section and its’ soil to rest. The plants are not eaten all the way and when the animals are away, the plants have enough time to grow back even stronger. This all keeps the plants healthier as their roots grow healthier and there will be less soil erosion. Machinery is often not widely used in regenerative agriculture as it may damage the soil (grazing animals are more gentle to the soil than heavy machines).
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