The terms “sustainable agriculture” and “regenerative agriculture” are frequently used, but what do they actually mean and what is the difference?
The desire to regenerate, or renew, the productivity and growth capacity of whatever is being restored is the primary distinction between regenerative agriculture and sustainable agriculture.
By definition, sustainable practices try to maintain the same, while regenerative approaches acknowledge that natural systems are already being impacted and worked to increase their output. Practically identical approaches can be used in both regenerative and sustainable actions; the differences are in how they are used and handled.
Sustainable Agriculture
A practice known as sustainable agriculture prioritises social, environmental, and economic considerations in agriculture on an equal basis. Future agricultural practices are protected by sustainable agriculture since it doesn’t risk the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Three main goals guide sustainable agriculture: a healthy environment, financial success, and social and economic equality. Sustainable farming methods encourage soil health, biodiversity restoration, low pollution levels, etc.
Target Fertilisers are committed to the future of agriculture in Ireland through sustainable fertiliser usage. We are constantly looking at methods of maximising production through environmentally friendly and efficient uses of fertiliser.
The Terra Range by Target Fertilisers includes a bio-stimulant, PSI-362, which facilitates a 20% reduction in chemical N application. This enables farmers to make a small change to move towards more sustainable future.
Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative agriculture is a method of farming that rebuilds the biodiversity of depleted soil. By regenerating soil organic matter, regenerative agriculture combats climate change. Additionally, it enhances the water cycle and reduces carbon dioxide emissions. Regenerative agriculture, to put it simply, is farming that works in harmony with the environment to prevent the depletion of natural resources.
Through the use of soil sampling, clover inclusion in grass swards and the efficient use of organic farm yard manure, we can move towards a better future for farming and the environment. Other regenerative practices include the use of multispecies swards, which can reduce nitrogen losses and facilitate a reduction in chemical fertiliser application.
By regenerating and reviving the soil and ecosystem, regenerative agriculture improves the state of the soil. Food of superior quality and nutritional value will be produced from the healthy soil, which will also enhance the land’s quality and soil biodiversity. Regenerative agriculture has many benefits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, reversing climate change, drought-resistant soil, boosting local economies, restoring grasslands, and enhancing nutrition.
Grazing cows naturally aerates the topsoil with their hooves and enrich the soil. By incorporating these duties into the farm’s natural ecosystem, it not only provides the cows with a higher quality of life but also helps farmers save money. It also means using less external energy, healthier soil, and higher-quality dairy products. It’s all positive outcomes.
To browse our Terra Range of sustainable products, click here
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