EMPOWERING FARMERS FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Agriculture stands at a crossroads. As climate change accelerates, soils are depleted, and biodiversity declines, the pressure on our global food systems is mounting. Farmers—the stewards of our landscapes—are on the front lines of this crisis. But the challenge extends beyond their livelihoods: it touches our soils, our land, our food, and the shared natural resources that sustain us all.
At Livelihoods, we believe that true transformation happens when farmers are at the forefront of change and when favourable conditions enable them to make this transition. As an example, a recent poll in France reveals that the vast majority of farmers are aware that agricultural models must evolve to accelerate the environmental transition of their sector: Over 80% of respondents want to adopt more sustainable agronomic practices, and only 7% say they do not want to commit to or accelerate the transition of their farms*.
*Source: The Shift Project
Climate change, energy prices and the risks associated with plant protection products are three major concerns for farmers: 86% of respondents consider that climate change represents a risk to the viability of their farm, rising energy prices and dependence on fossil fuels are sources of worry for over 70% of respondents, and 75% of respondents are concerned about the effects of plant protection products on their health. Concerns about environmental risks are particularly pronounced among young people and women, two strategic targets for generational renewal.
The survey also reveals that farmers will not be able to make this transition without a clear vision for the future of the sector, and massive support from society and public authorities: 86% of respondents are calling for clear, stable objectives, and 87% are asking for a financial condition to commit to or accelerate their transition, in particular by being paid for environmental services rendered and protected against international competition they consider unfair. 77% also want decentralized implementation to take account of specific regional characteristics.
This is precisely what the Livelihoods approach is about:
- First, accompany farmers financially and technically to help them implement gradually regenerative agriculture practices, considering the specificities of locations and farming models.
- Second, make sure that the economic model of the farm is sustainable. In the projects implemented over the last few years with Livelihoods support, we have seen yields remain at a very good level, very close to those obtained with conventional methods, and production costs have been reduced with lower inputs and investment in heavy machinery. Farmers’ testimonials also confirm a significant reduction in working time, with the abandonment of ploughing and a different use of time. Regenerative agriculture requires a very detailed knowledge of terroirs, agronomy and a reflection on the practices to be implemented.
- Third, make the transition affordable through coalitions of committed partners—companies, NGOs, financial institutions, and local stakeholders—who share a vision of a resilient and regenerative food system. Financially, public-private coalitions make full sense: companies that source from farms have a direct interest to secure long term quality supply and payments for environmental services can be provided by public funding. Indeed, regenerative agriculture aims at generating value for the private sector and public good for the whole population, healthy food, climate, water resources, biodiversity and landscape.
WHAT IS REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE?
Regenerative agriculture is more than just a set of farming techniques; it’s a mindset shift—one that redefines how we grow food by restoring and enriching ecosystems rather than merely sustaining them. At its core, regenerative farming seeks to enhance soil health, biodiversity, and economic resilience, ensuring that agriculture can thrive for generations to come.
Healthy soil is the foundation of this approach. By increasing organic matter, encouraging microbial life, and improving natural carbon storage, regenerative practices enhance soil fertility, strengthen water retention, and reduce erosion. Farmers who adopt methods like minimal tillage, permanent soil cover, diverse crop rotations, and agroforestry create self-sustaining ecosystems that require fewer synthetic inputs. This means healthier crops, lower dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and increased resilience against climate extremes.
OUR APPROACH: BUILDING LASTING IMPACT
Since 2015, Livelihoods has been designing and implementing large-scale regenerative agriculture projects that integrate sustainability into supply chains. We take a landscape approach, working closely with public institutions, suppliers, local communities, and industry partners to create collaborative, high-impact programs. By securing technical expertise and financial mechanisms, we help farmers overcome the barriers to transition.
Our projects span a diverse range of geographies—including Europe, Africa, Latin America, and Asia—where local contexts shape tailored solutions and long-term impact.
Our outcome-based programs are built for the long run—we measure progress, refine strategies, and scale impact, ensuring that regenerative agriculture becomes a lasting reality, not just an ambition.
Together, we are rethinking agriculture, one field, one farm, and one community at a time.
