Submitted by Chris Kerston
Deep in the jungle of Costa Rica, something is emerging. No it’s not a genetically engineered Jurassic dinosaur, it’s a new global alignment centered around regenerative agriculture, feeding the planet nutritious food, and reversing climate change. I had the honor of attending the first-ever Regeneration International working group organized by Vandana Shiva, Hans Herren of Millennium Institute, Andre Leu of IFOAM, Steve Rye of Mercola, Ronnie Cummins of Organic Consumers Association, and Tom Newmark of Carbon Underground.
The goal of this private working group, comprised of farmers, pastoralists, scientists, NGOs and activists, is to bring together thought-leaders and game changers in order to “promote the multifunctional benefits of regenerative forms of agriculture such as agro-ecology, holistic grazing, cover cropping, permaculture, and agroforestry” and to “counter the growing global push for so-called ‘Sustainable Intensification’ based on GMOs and the increased use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers.”
For 3 days we discussed opportunities to collaborate on creating global awareness of how regenerative agriculture can mitigate climate change through carbon sequestration, improve human and environmental health, and provide long-term agricultural productivity and resilience to smallholding family farmers. Some exciting proposals are being put together now to bring together a global network of game changers like never before. Stay tuned…
The conference was held at Tom and Terry Newmark’s beautiful farm and lodge Finca Luna Nueva. I highly recommend it if you want to do some agri or eco tourism in Central America. Check out their website finca luna nueva lodge
