Rewind #6 - Regenerative agriculture: farmers become the solution, not the problem! [Chuck de Liedekerke]

In this special rewind episode, we revisit one of the most inspiring conversations from the past year—our chat with Chuck de Liedekerke, founder of Soil Capital. Dive into Chuck’s compelling vision for transitioning global agriculture to regenerative farming, a solution not just for farmers but for our planet’s future.Chuck shares how regenerative agriculture rebuilds soil health, enhances resilience against climate change, and creates thriving ecosystems, all while boosting profitability for farmers. From transforming drought-stricken vineyards in South Africa to scaling regenerative practices worldwide, this conversation reveals why farmers are central to solving some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges.“The costs of doing nothing are far greater than the costs of change,” Chuck emphasizes. Join us to learn how empowering farmers with tools, incentives, and recognition can transform agriculture into a solution for climate change and food security.📌 Don’t miss this episode if you care about farming, the environment, or creating a healthier planet for future generations.EPISODE CHAPTERS:Defining Regenerative Agriculture (0:01:30–0:02:44)• Chuck explains regenerative agriculture by contrasting it with extractive agriculture.• Historical context of soil degradation and the significance of reversing this trend.The Business Case for Regenerative Farming (0:02:44–0:06:39)• Chuck shares examples of profitability and resilience in regenerative farming, including a case study of grape farming in drought-stricken South Africa.• The pivotal realization that regenerative farming can outcompete conventional methods during climate stress.The Biggest Barrier: Changing Farmers’ Mindsets (0:06:39–0:08:10)• Challenges in convincing farmers to adopt regenerative practices.• The deep respect Chuck has for farmers and their connection to their land.Three Key Challenges to Adoption (0:08:10–0:10:02)• Lack of technical knowledge.• Fear of economic loss.• Absence of clear financial incentives.The Role of Financial Incentives (0:10:02–0:12:39)• The importance of economic motivations to drive adoption.• Parallels drawn to organic farming and its reliance on price premiums.Scaling Regenerative Agriculture Through Soil Capital (0:13:36–0:19:12)• Soil Capital’s approach to measuring and certifying carbon and regenerative practices.• How the program integrates food system stakeholders to make regenerative practices attractive for farmers.Why This Matters: Climate Change and Food Security (0:19:12–0:20:48)• The critical role of regenerative farming in addressing food security amidst climate stress.• The urgent need to scale regenerative practices to avoid supply chain disruptions.Can We Transition All Land to Regenerative Farming? (0:20:48–0:22:16)• Chuck’s belief that transitioning all farmland is not optional but necessary.• How regenerative agriculture flips the narrative for farmers from being blamed for environmental degradation to being climate heroes.Closing Thoughts: Farmers at the Center (0:22:16–0:23:21)• Summary of Soil Capital’s mission to reward farmers for regenerative practices.• A call to action for listeners to support the podcast and its mission.⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯Email - raphael@deepseed.euHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Om Podcasten

Welcome to the Deep Seed Podcast, your ultimate source for all things regenerative agriculture, soil health, and ecosystem restoration! Join your host, Raphaël, on an exciting journey into the heart of sustainable farming and environmental resilience. The podcast is packed with inspiring conversations with regenerative farmers, cutting-edge innovators, and leading experts who are pioneering the movement towards a more regenerative food system. Whether you’re a passionate advocate for sustainability, a professional in agriculture or environmental science, or just curious about the future of our food systems, the Deep Seed Podcast is your gateway to the vibrant world of regenerative agriculture. Key topics discussed include: Agroecology and its role in creating sustainable food systems The power of agroforestry in boosting biodiversity and productivity How carbon farming can fight climate change while benefiting farmers The benefits of no-till farming for soil health and erosion prevention Holistic grazing practices that restore ecosystems and enhance animal welfare Crop rotation and polyculture for nutrient-rich soils and resilient farms Exploring the potential of food forests and other nature-based solutions The critical link between soil microbiology and plant health Restoration agriculture and the future of land regeneration Climate solutions that leverage regenerative practices to sequester carbon Promoting biodiversity through sustainable farming approaches Insights into the importance of sustainable diets and their environmental impact Rewilding and its role in ecosystem restoration and preservation Produced in partnership with Soil Capital, a leader in supporting regenerative agriculture and rewarding farmers for improving soil health, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in sustainable farming and climate action. Get in touch with me LinkedIn - Raphael Esterhazy Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.