ADM and Bayer have announced an extension of their partnership aimed at accelerating the adoption of regenerative agricultural practices among farmers across Europe. The collaboration, which began with a feasibility study last year, focuses on mitigating carbon emissions, enhancing biodiversity, and improving soil health.
Initially, the companies conducted an in-depth assessment with oilseed rape farmers in Poland, covering approximately 9,000 hectares. This assessment revealed that farms practicing at least one regenerative agriculture technique saw a 15% reduction in carbon emissions compared to conventional methods. Comprehensive adoption of these practices could potentially lead to emissions reductions of up to 40%.
Building on this success, the next phase of the program will expand to include a wider range of crops such as corn, wheat, and barley, extending geographically across Eastern Europe. Participating farmers will receive financial and technical support to implement regenerative practices such as minimum tillage, cover cropping, companion planting, nutrient management, organic matter utilization, and crop rotation.
ADM will compensate farmers based on verified hectare improvements using Bayer’s digital capabilities in conjunction with Trinity Agtech’s Sandy platform. This platform ensures compliance with rigorous scientific standards, providing growers with user-friendly tools for measurement and verification.
In addition to financial incentives, farmers will benefit from personalized agronomic guidance tailored to regional needs. This support includes on-farm assessments and peer learning opportunities to share best practices and experiences.
The success of the 2023 feasibility program informed the expansion, emphasizing localized insights and data collection on greenhouse gas emissions and soil health. Feedback from farmers like Karol Pietnoczka and Piotr Hulanicki underscored the practical benefits and profitability of regenerative practices.
Candy Siekmann, director of Climate Smart Agriculture Origination at ADM, highlighted the program’s role in enhancing sustainability and meeting consumer demand for eco-friendly products. She emphasized the collaborative effort with Bayer to build resilient supply chains with lower carbon footprints.
Lionnel Alexandre, Carbon Business Lead, EMEA for Bayer, emphasized the project’s strategic importance in advancing regenerative agriculture across Europe. Bayer’s integrated approach combines digital tools, scientific expertise, and agronomic support to empower farmers and build a sustainable agricultural future.
The expanded collaboration between ADM and Bayer underscores their commitment to driving environmental stewardship and agricultural innovation across Europe.
