By Clare Broderick, Founder of Greener Cleaner LIVING, LLC
Whether you’re a parent, a young person, or anyone who cares about the future of our planet, there are practical steps you can take to support regenerative farming and make a positive impact on the environment and your community.
In Parts 1 and 2 of our series, we explored the concept of regenerative farming and delved into its numerous benefits. Now, in Part 3, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and discover how to actively embrace regenerative practices in our daily lives.
Bringing Regenerative Practices Home
Start a Home Garden:
- Consider starting a home garden, no matter how small your space. Gardening allows you to apply regenerative principles, such as minimal tillage, cover cropping, and composting, in your own backyard.
Compost and Recycle:
- Embrace composting to reduce kitchen waste and create nutrient-rich soil amendments for your garden. Additionally, practice recycling to minimize the environmental impact of household waste.
Support Pollinators:
- Create a welcoming habitat for pollinators like bees and butterflies by planting native flowers. These insects play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and agriculture.
Reduce Chemical Use:
- If you currently use synthetic chemicals in your garden, consider transitioning to organic and natural alternatives. Integrated pest management and companion planting can help control pests without resorting to chemicals.
Learn and Experiment:
- Keep learning about regenerative gardening techniques and experiment with different practices. Gardening is a continuous learning process, and each season offers opportunities for improvement.
Supporting Local Regenerative Farms
Shop Locally:
- Seek out local farmers’ markets, farm stands, and CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs that offer produce from regenerative farms. By purchasing locally, you support farmers who are committed to sustainable practices.
Join a CSA:
- Consider joining a CSA to receive a regular supply of fresh, seasonal produce directly from a local farm. CSAs often prioritize regenerative and organic methods.
Engage with Farmers:
- Take the time to get to know the farmers behind your food. Ask questions about their farming practices and express your support for regenerative agriculture.
Advocate for Regenerative Farming:
- Become an advocate for regenerative farming in your community. Raise awareness about the benefits of sustainable agriculture and encourage others to support local regenerative farms.
Advocacy and Education
Support Policy Changes:
- Stay informed about local and national agricultural policies. Support legislation that promotes sustainable and regenerative farming practices, such as conservation programs and incentives for regenerative farmers.
Educate Yourself:
- Educate yourself about regenerative farming by reading books, articles, and scientific studies on the topic. Knowledge is a powerful tool for advocating and making informed choices.
Educate Others:
- Share your knowledge with friends, family, and your community. Host discussions, workshops, or educational events to raise awareness about regenerative farming and its benefits.
Join Organizations:
- Consider joining or supporting organizations dedicated to regenerative agriculture. These groups often provide resources, networking opportunities, and ways to get involved in advocacy efforts.
Closing Thoughts
In closing, embracing regenerative farming is not just a choice; it’s a commitment to a sustainable and resilient future. Whether you’re starting a garden in your backyard, supporting local regenerative farms, advocating for policy changes, or educating others, every action you take contributes to the broader movement towards a healthier and more conscious food system.
Our choices have a profound impact on the health and well-being of ourselves, our families and our community. By choosing regenerative practices and supporting regenerative farmers, you are taking concrete steps towards a more sustainable and regenerative future for all of us. Together, we can nourish the earth and ourselves, creating a better world for generations to come.
Clare Broderick is the Director of Partnership Development at the WEforum Group and is the founder of Greener Cleaner LIVING, LLC, a sustainable home and lifestyle consultancy. Clare uses her extensive professional experience in healthcare environment & building design to help women learn to live a more natural, non-toxic lifestyle & make changes to detox your family’s home & health. Get started with this free guide: Top 10 Healthy Home Detox Guide