Fonterra Regenerative Agriculture Framework
Regenerative agriculture is inherent to how we farm in New Zealand. As world leaders in grass-fed pasture-based dairy systems, many of the practices we consider as standard practice in New Zealand are recognised globally as being part of a regenerative agriculture approach. So, we’ve already been on this journey for a long time. Far from a transition, we see regenerative agriculture as a continuous evolution for us, building on the practices established by generations before.
The concept of regenerative agriculture is growing in popularity globally. Whilst there is no globally accepted definition, Fonterra’s definition is grounded in the New Zealand way of farming and is based on the definition outlined by the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative Platform (SAI Platform). Our regenerative agriculture framework and application of our on-farm practices shows that we are at an immediate advantage, and helps to guide future improvements that could maximise benefits for farmers, our customers and our natural environment – so we can all thrive collectively into the future.
Our Resources
All farmers are on their own journey, each farm is unique and with their own set of challenges. We’ve spoken to some of our farmers about how they are helping to protect key resources and outcomes through the regenerative agriculture practices they use on their farms.
Soil
Water
Water is an essential resource that we rely on. Healthy freshwater is essential for thriving ecosystems. Due to the high amount of rainfall we receive in New Zealand, we have a low water scarcity footprint, however, farmers are faced with challenges when it comes to managing water quality.
Hear from Ian and Keith Trotter, Fonterra farmers shareholders on the benefits they have seen on their farm by protecting their waterways.
Animal
Healthy, cared for animals are the heart of every dairy farm. Prioritising healthy cows through animal management is a critical component of farm sustainability and performance.
Hear from Ian and Keith Trotter, Fonterra farmer shareholders talk about how a regenerative approach and practices on their farms helps to supports healthy ecosystem, and how data and technology can be is used to monitor each cow to help ensure the cows are healthy and well cared for.
Biodiversity
The regeneration of biodiversity across Aotearoa New Zealand is essential to the future of dairy farming.
The variation of the natural ecosystems that our farmer owners operate within is vast, with an estimated 80,000 species of plant, insects, birds and other wildlife that are unique to New Zealand.
Hear from Jason Christensen, Fonterra farmer shareholder about some of the native species on his farm, how they work together, and the importance of protecting these for future generations.
Our 10 Regenerative Agricultural Practices
Fencing off and replanting native species to sequester more carbon, increase biodiversity and reduce nutrient runoff into waterways.
Fencing and planting waterways, restoring wetlands and optimising fertiliser use to protect freshwater.
Treating animals responsibly and continuously improving animal welfare is a vital part of a healthy farming system.
Capturing, storing and using manure as a natural fertiliser on farm to reduce the need for synthetic fertilisers.
Testing soil regularly and precisely balancing nutrients to achieve optimal pasture growth rate and soil health, while minimising nitrous oxide emissions.
Maintaining multiple plant species in New Zealand pastures enhances permanent carbon capture and water holding capacity.
Proactively preventing weed establishment to reduce the need for herbicide and pesticide use.
Only using irrigation when necessary to promote pasture growth and efficient use of fertiliser.
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Soil underpins the health of farming environments with different challenges in different countries and regions. Grazed pastures have more organic matter and carbon content in the soil than cultivated fields. This means the soil has a better structure, increasing the amount of water and nutrients it can hold.
Ensuring our soil is healthy provides the best conditions for plant growth, encourages biological activity, stores water and resists erosion. It is essential for sustainable food production and nutrient management.
Hear from Jason Christensen, Fonterra farmer shareholder on how the regenerative agriculture practices they use help to protect the young soils of New Zealand.