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How can sustainable agriculture make food systems more resilient to climate change?

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A row of cattle with brown and black coats eat feed from a long trough in a South African feedlot, separated by wooden fencing. — Feed Feedlot cattle eating grain in an intensive animal farm in South Africa.

Sustainable agriculture and regenerative agriculture enhance the resilience of food systems to climate change by restoring ecosystem health and reducing reliance on practices that exacerbate global warming.12

Key strategies for building resilience include:

Soil Health and Carbon Sequestration: Practices such as no-till farming and the use of cover crops prevent erosion and improve water retention. By minimizing soil disturbance, these methods also keep carbon stored in the ground rather than releasing it as carbon dioxide.12
Crop Diversity: Moving away from monoculture toward polyculture reduces vulnerability to pests, diseases, and climate-related supply chain interruptions. Utilizing heirloom plants can provide essential genetic traits like heat and drought tolerance.12
Resource Management: Sustainable systems prioritize water conservation through improved storage and reduced-volume irrigation. Additionally, shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like solar and wind reduces the agricultural sector's contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.1
Livestock Integration: Managing manure and using feed additives can lower methane emissions, while rotational grazing helps manage land health naturally.12