Soil represents one of the largest carbon reservoirs on Earth, containing more carbon than the atmosphere and all vegetation combined. Regenerating degraded soils offers a powerful opportunity to address climate change while improving food security.
The Soil-Climate Connection
Healthy soils store carbon in organic matter, improving fertility while keeping CO2 out of the atmosphere. Degraded soils release stored carbon and become more vulnerable to erosion, creating a destructive cycle that climate change accelerates.
Regenerative Agriculture
Practices like cover cropping, reduced tillage, rotational grazing, and composting can rebuild soil health. These approaches increase soil organic matter, improve water retention, and enhance crop resilience to drought and flooding.
Carbon Sequestration Potential
Agricultural soils could sequester 1-3 billion tonnes of CO2 annually through improved management—equivalent to 3-8% of current global emissions. While not a complete climate solution, soil carbon is an important piece of the puzzle.
Co-Benefits for Farmers
Healthier soils reduce input costs, improve yields, and build resilience to weather extremes. Farmers practicing regenerative agriculture often find economic benefits alongside environmental improvements.
Scaling Up Solutions
Expanding regenerative practices requires policy support, technical assistance, and market incentives. Carbon credit programs and sustainable sourcing commitments can help farmers transition to soil-building practices.