Ardo's Commitment to Regenerative Agriculture: Promoting Sustainability in Farming in collaboration with our farmers
Ardo has been proactive in addressing the challenges faced by farmers due to climate change and soil degradation. Through initiatives like "Let's Meet in the Field," Ardo promotes regenerative agriculture, aiming to support farmers in enhancing their sustainability practices. This approach focuses on restoring soil health, improving biodiversity, and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather, ensuring a resilient future for agriculture.
Declining Yields and Increasing Variability
Over recent years, Ardo has observed a worrying trend: a decline in open-field vegetable yields, coupled with increased variability. According to Emilie Haspeslagh, Ardo's Director of Sustainability, the average yields have decreased by 15-20% over the past five years compared to the previous five. This decline is attributed mainly to poor soil conditions exacerbated by extreme weather events. These fluctuations not only disrupt the supply chain but also pose significant challenges to planning and cultivation.
Embracing Regenerative Agriculture
At the "Let's Meet in the Field" event, Ardo showcased the principles of regenerative agriculture to farmers and customers. This farming method focuses on enhancing soil health, improving biodiversity, and reducing the environmental impact of farming practices. By adopting regenerative agriculture, farmers can create more resilient systems that work in harmony with nature.
Mimosa+ Program: A Sustainable Solution
Ardo highlighted the Mimosa+ program (Minimum Input Maximum Output Sustainable Agriculture) at the event. This initiative, launched in 2023, aims to promote sustainable farming practices that boost soil health, protect water resources, and enhance biodiversity. According to Marco Bom, Agro Manager at Ardo, the future of food lies in working with nature rather than against it. The Mimosa+ program encourages farmers to adopt practices that ensure optimal yields while minimizing environmental impact.
Innovations in Regenerative Agriculture
During the event, Ardo highlighted several promising techniques and innovations under the Mimosa+ program. VP Landbouw, an innovative mixed farming enterprise, demonstrated their experience with regenerative agriculture on their farm. By eliminating plowing and using appropriate cover crops post-harvest, they have significantly improved soil conditions. Jobien Laurijssen (Sustainability Manager at VP Capital, with VP Landbouw as part of its portfolio), emphasized that regenerative agriculture is an ongoing journey, with continuous learning and adaptation required.
Collaboration and Understanding
Ardo's commitment to sustainability extends to its partnerships. Recently, Ardo joined forces with Unilever, Jumbo, and Agrifirm in the 'Wortel Collectief' (The Carrot Collective), an initiative focused on securing carrot cultivation. Peter van Riessen, Ardo's Group Sales Director, noted the growing understanding and cooperation among customers, as evidenced by this collaboration. By raising awareness among farmers and consumers alike, Ardo aims to foster a collective effort towards sustainable agriculture.
The Path Forward
Despite the challenges posed by climate change and soil degradation, Ardo remains dedicated to supporting farmers through innovative and sustainable practices. By promoting regenerative agriculture, Ardo is not only addressing immediate concerns but also ensuring a resilient and sustainable future for food production. Farmers looking to enhance their sustainability practices can rely on Ardo's expertise and initiatives like the Mimosa+ program to navigate the complexities of modern agriculture.
For more information on how Ardo is supporting farmers and promoting regenerative agriculture, visit Ardo's Regenerative Agriculture page.
