How Mexico is Growing a Greener Future

At a time when global sustainability thresholds are being alarmingly exceeded, Mexico stands out as a beacon of proactive change in the agricultural sector. With over 700,000 producers trained in the responsible management of pollinators, water, and soil resources, Mexico's approach offers a fascinating blueprint for a more sustainable future. The recent Third Inter-American Congress on Water, Soil, and Agrobiodiversity (CIASA) underscored this commitment, highlighting the country’s innovative policies that prioritize sustainability, productivity, and inclusion.

Under the current administration, led by Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development Víctor Villalobos Arámbula, Mexico has redefined the role of soil in agricultural practices. Historically underappreciated, soil is now front and center in agricultural activity, influencing the design of programs and strategies aimed at conserving this vital resource.

Villalobos, speaking at CIASA, emphasized the importance of soil conservation as a fundamental element of public policy. Through the implementation of the National Soil Strategy for Sustainable Agriculture (ENASAS), the Ministry of Agriculture has developed comprehensive monitoring, analysis, and conservation practices. The strategy marks a significant pivot in policy, recognizing that soil health is directly linked to food security, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.

Pollinators are another key focus of Mexico’s agricultural transformation. Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators play a critical role in global food production, yet their populations are declining at an alarming rate due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Mexico’s National Strategy for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Pollinators (ENCUSP) addresses this challenge head-on by integrating pollinator protection into agricultural practices.

Through ENCUSP, farmers are trained to adopt pollinator-friendly practices, such as reducing pesticide use, planting native species, and creating habitats that support pollinator health. This approach not only aids in the conservation of these vital species but also enhances crop yields, showcasing a direct link between ecological stewardship and agricultural productivity.

The effects of climate change on agriculture are no longer theoretical; they are visible and impactful, particularly in vulnerable regions. Mexico’s Strategic Plan for Climate Change of the Agri-Food Sector (PLECCA) aims to address these challenges by equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools to adapt to changing conditions. By understanding the impacts of climate change on crop cycles, water availability, and pest dynamics, producers can make informed decisions that enhance resilience.

A notable example of this adaptation in action is the agreement reached with crystalline wheat producers in southern Sonora. Faced with dwindling water resources, these farmers agreed to shift from water-intensive wheat to barley, a crop that requires significantly less irrigation. This transition, affecting 60,000 hectares, not only conserves water but also supports local economies, as the barley is purchased by the brewing industry. It’s a win-win scenario where environmental and economic interests align.

Mexico’s agricultural transformation is not occurring in isolation. It is part of a broader, global movement that recognizes the urgent need to reconfigure food production and consumption models. At the heart of this shift is the goal of improving quality of life, especially for vulnerable populations. In Mexico, the results are tangible: 10.3 million Mexicans no longer experience food insecurity, and 1.9 million people, mostly from rural areas, have been lifted out of poverty.

These achievements are more than statistics; they are proof that sustainable agriculture can drive social progress. The convergence of global sustainability goals with local actions highlights Mexico’s unique approach, blending science, policy, and community engagement to create a resilient agricultural sector.

Agriculture is often vilified as a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, but Mexico’s initiatives show that it can also be part of the solution. By promoting the responsible management of soils, agricultural practices can help sequester carbon, offsetting emissions and contributing to global climate goals. Secretary Villalobos highlighted this aspect during CIASA, noting that the agricultural sector’s role in CO2 capture is critical in the fight against climate change.

The concept is simple yet powerful: healthy soils act as carbon sinks, pulling CO2 from the atmosphere and storing it underground. This natural process not only mitigates climate change but also enhances soil fertility, creating a positive feedback loop that supports crop production. By prioritizing soil health, Mexico is turning agriculture from a climate problem into a climate solution.

Behind every policy, every program, and every strategy are the people who bring them to life. For Secretary Villalobos, the key to Mexico’s agricultural renaissance is passion—passion for the land, for the environment, and for the communities that depend on them. He emphasizes that the transformation of natural resources into food is not just a technical process but a profound responsibility.

Food Security and Family Farming in Chile

In a world increasingly fraught with climate challenges, urban sprawl, and food insecurity, Chile stands out with its innovative approach to bolstering national food sovereignty. At the heart of this effort is a profound commitment to peasant and indigenous family farming of Chile’s agricultural landscape. According to Chile's Undersecretary of Agriculture, Ignacia Fernández Gatica, strengthening these small-scale farmers is not just a policy choice—it’s a strategic imperative for the country’s food security.

Family farming in Chile isn’t just about growing food; it’s about preserving a way of life deeply rooted in tradition, culture, and the sustainable stewardship of the land. Fernández Gatica highlights that while Chile has made significant strides in agriculture over the past two decades, several challenges persist. Key among them are reducing dependence on imported goods, adapting to the shifting impacts of climate change on agrobiodiversity, improving access to financing for small farmers, and curbing the encroachment of urban development into rural areas.

In response, the Chilean government has rolled out the Sovereignty Strategy for Food Security, a comprehensive plan designed to empower small and medium-scale producers. This strategy seeks to revitalize local production capacities, enhance market access, and promote technological innovations that can drive efficiency and resilience in the agricultural sector. Through this approach, Chile aims to safeguard its food systems from external shocks and foster a more self-sufficient, sustainable agricultural economy.

One of the standout features of Chile’s strategy is its focus on the sustainable management of agricultural soils. The country recognizes that healthy soil is the bedrock of productive farming, and it has renewed several initiatives to promote sustainable practices. This effort goes beyond just environmental stewardship; it emphasizes a social dimension by fostering associative work among small farmers, encouraging public-private collaboration, and supporting community-driven conservation efforts.

These initiatives reflect a broader ethos that links agricultural productivity with social justice and environmental health. By supporting small farmers through financing, training, and technological integration, Chile is not just boosting food production but also empowering communities, preserving traditional knowledge, and enhancing resilience against the unpredictable challenges of climate change.

Chile’s Sovereignty Strategy is not developed in isolation; it draws inspiration from and collaborates with neighboring countries facing similar challenges. Brazil, for instance, has leveraged its vast agricultural potential to become the world’s second-largest exporter of grains. According to Roberto Perosa, Brazil’s Secretary of Commerce and International Relations at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, their success hinges on utilizing the country’s diverse climate zones to maximize production, supported by robust innovation and technology.

Brazil’s model demonstrates how technological adoption and strategic financing can turn agricultural challenges into opportunities. By focusing on small-scale producers and industrialists, Brazil has not only increased its agricultural output but also played a critical role in combating hunger in vulnerable nations. These efforts underscore the importance of strategic support for small farmers, who are often the first to bear the brunt of economic and environmental pressures.

Meanwhile, Belize faces its own set of challenges. Clifford Anthony Martinez, the Coordinator of Water Management and Climate Change in Belize, notes that climate change has severely impacted the country’s agricultural productivity, forcing Belize to import food and other inputs. To counteract these pressures, Belize has embraced practices that prioritize the care of water, soil, and biodiversity, all while promoting economic development and social support for farmers.

Belize’s approach intertwines agricultural sustainability with economic support, financing farmers facing economic difficulties, and opening new markets that add value to crops. This dual focus not only helps stabilize local food systems but also enhances community resilience and adaptation to environmental changes. The Belizean strategy exemplifies how targeted support for environmental and agricultural programs can create a more robust and diversified agricultural sector.

Chile’s Sovereignty Strategy for Food Security serves as a reminder of the complex web that connects food production, environmental health, and social well-being. It’s a strategy that places small farmers—those often overlooked in large-scale agricultural narratives—at the forefront of national food security efforts. By emphasizing sustainable practices, market access, and technological innovation, Chile is nurturing an agricultural model that is as resilient as it is inclusive.

But beyond the policies and programs, there’s an underlying message in Chile’s strategy that resonates deeply: food sovereignty isn’t just about producing enough to eat; it’s about who gets to produce, how they produce, and the impacts of those processes on communities and ecosystems. In a world where food systems are increasingly controlled by a few multinational corporations, Chile’s focus on family farming is both radical and necessary.

A Fork in the Road

As humanity grapples with the alarming reality of having surpassed the planetary boundaries of sustainability, a radical rethink of how we produce and consume food is urgently required. This critical message was front and center during the keynote lecture, "Carbon Capture and Management of Silvopastoral Soils," delivered by Ibrahim Muhammad Akbar, Director of Technical Cooperation at the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). With stark clarity, Akbar painted a picture of a world where the old models of agriculture no longer suffice, and bold new approaches must take their place.

Akbar’s warning comes at a time when global agriculture stands at a crossroads. For decades, the dominant model has been one of expansion—more land, more inputs, more outputs. But this relentless pursuit of growth has exacted a heavy toll on the environment, depleting soils, decimating biodiversity, and pushing ecosystems to the brink. Today, we face a harsh reality: the earth’s capacity to sustain this model has been breached.

The answer, Akbar argues, lies in a profound shift towards sustainable intensification—a strategy that seeks to produce more food on less land while simultaneously preserving and restoring ecosystems. The idea is deceptively simple but fundamentally transformative: maximize productivity within existing agricultural spaces, allowing other areas to be dedicated to conservation or alternative agricultural uses. This reconfiguration is not just about farming differently; it's about rethinking the entire landscape of food production.

At the heart of this reimagined agricultural landscape is the concept of silvopastoral systems, which combine trees, forage plants, and livestock in a mutually beneficial arrangement. These systems are more than just a novel farming technique; they represent a holistic approach to land use that enhances biodiversity, improves soil health, and captures carbon, all while boosting productivity. Akbar highlighted the potential of these systems to revolutionize agriculture by integrating livestock and crops, enhancing the genetic management of animals, and employing improved forage varieties.

The benefits of silvopastoral systems are manifold. They can significantly increase milk and meat production, improve the health and welfare of livestock, and generate clean energy from biomass. Moreover, they offer a powerful tool for reducing agriculture's carbon footprint by sequestering carbon in soils and vegetation. This carbon capture capability not only helps mitigate climate change but also improves soil fertility and water retention, creating a more resilient agricultural system.

One of the most striking examples of sustainable intensification in action is Mexico’s innovative use of cacti to rehabilitate abandoned agricultural lands. In regions where traditional crops struggle to survive, the resilient cactus thrives, producing between 2.8 to 7.0 kilograms per plant just 16 months after establishment. Cacti maintain their biomass even during critical feeding seasons, making them an invaluable resource for feeding livestock such as sheep, goats, and cattle.

But the cactus’s benefits extend far beyond just feeding animals. It enhances soil carbon content, improves water retention, and offers a low-maintenance crop that can transform marginal lands into productive spaces. This approach showcases the power of adaptive agriculture—turning challenges like arid soils and erratic rainfall into opportunities for sustainable food production.

While novel crops and innovative systems capture the imagination, Akbar emphasizes that the foundation of sustainable intensification lies in the soil beneath our feet. Soils are more than just a growing medium; they are dynamic ecosystems that play a crucial role in supporting life on Earth. They filter water, support plant growth, and act as one of the planet’s largest carbon sinks. Yet, they are often overlooked in discussions about climate change and food security.

To truly reconfigure our food systems, Akbar calls for science-based policies that prioritize soil conservation. This involves not just preventing soil erosion but actively working to restore degraded soils, enhance water retention, and increase soil organic matter through techniques like cover cropping, reduced tillage, and the incorporation of organic amendments. By investing in soil health, we can create agricultural systems that are more productive, resilient, and sustainable.

Beyond individual farms, Akbar advocates for a territorial approach that looks at the broader landscape, integrating conservation into agricultural planning. This means designing agricultural systems that include functional species with ecological value, creating mosaics of production and conservation that benefit both nature and people. Diverse landscapes support greater biodiversity, enhance ecosystem services like pollination and pest control, and provide critical habitats that buffer against the impacts of climate change.

Governments, Akbar insists, must accelerate their efforts to reconfigure agricultural landscapes. This requires not only technological innovations and new farming practices but also a fundamental shift in how we value and manage our land. By embracing a territorial approach, countries can develop multifunctional landscapes that support food production, biodiversity, and climate resilience.

Reconfiguring food production is only half the battle; equally important is reshaping how we consume food. Current consumption patterns, characterized by high levels of waste and a heavy reliance on resource-intensive foods, are unsustainable. A reimagined food system must include efforts to reduce food waste, promote plant-based diets, and prioritize local and seasonal foods that have a lower environmental impact.

This cultural shift in consumption can help reduce the overall demand for land, water, and energy in food production, easing pressure on ecosystems. It also requires a collective effort to rethink the value of food—not just as a commodity, but as a product of intricate ecological processes that need protection.

Celebrating Good Agricultural Practices

As the curtains closed on the third edition of the Inter-American Congress on Water, Soil, and Agrobiodiversity (CIASA 2024), held in the bustling heart of Mexico City, it was clear that the event had far exceeded expectations. With the ambitious goal of promoting sustainable agricultural practices and highlighting the crucial role of soil and water resources, CIASA 2024 became more than just a conference—it was a rallying cry for the future of farming. Led by Secretary of Agriculture Víctor Villalobos Arámbula, the Congress brought together a vibrant mix of researchers, policymakers, and forward-thinking producers, all united by a shared vision of a more sustainable agricultural future.

At the heart of CIASA 2024 was a deep recognition of the unsung heroes of agriculture: the producers who quietly champion sustainable practices in their fields, orchards, and pastures. These farmers, often working far from the spotlight, are the backbone of efforts to combat climate change, improve food security, and steward the land for future generations. Villalobos Arámbula lauded these producers for their commitment to good practices, emphasizing that soil is not just a foundation for crops but the planet's most effective tool for sequestering carbon dioxide (CO2). As climate pressures mount, the significance of soil health as a carbon sink cannot be overstated.

"We stand at a crossroads," Villalobos declared, "where the health of our soils will define the health of our planet. These producers are not just farming; they are on the frontlines of the battle against climate change."

In a nod to the momentum generated at CIASA 2024, Villalobos announced plans for the Congress's fourth edition, to be held in Chihuahua, Chihuahua, a city synonymous with rugged landscapes and resilient agriculture. The decision to continue this vital conversation reflects a broader commitment to sharing scientific and technological knowledge that bridges the gap between traditional practices and cutting-edge innovations. By focusing on the interplay of natural resources, CIASA aims to drive home the message that sustainable agricultural production is the key to ensuring food security in an increasingly uncertain world.

Chihuahua, with its blend of arid deserts and fertile valleys, serves as the perfect backdrop for the next phase of the Congress. Here, the challenges of water scarcity and soil degradation are palpable, making it a living laboratory for sustainable practices. The event promises to further engage producers, scientists, and policymakers, encouraging them to explore practical solutions that can be replicated across diverse agricultural landscapes.

The success of CIASA 2024 was underscored by the diverse participation of experts from 20 countries, including leading authorities and specialists from top research institutions. Luis Ángel Rodríguez del Bosque, head of the General Directorate of the National Institute of Forestry, Agriculture, and Livestock Research (INIFAP), praised the global nature of the event, noting the impressive turnout both online and in person. Nearly 17,000 virtual attendees tuned in from around the world, while approximately 200 participants attended the three-day event in person, underscoring the growing appetite for knowledge exchange in sustainable agriculture.

Rodríguez del Bosque highlighted the importance of these international collaborations, emphasizing that the challenges facing agriculture today—climate change, soil degradation, and water scarcity—are not confined by borders. "It’s not just about what we do in our own fields," he remarked, "but how we learn from each other’s successes and failures to build a global movement towards sustainable agriculture."

At CIASA 2024, the spotlight shone brightly on innovative practices that offer a blueprint for the future. From crop rotation and cover cropping to advanced soil conservation techniques, these good practices are quietly revolutionizing the way we think about farming. By maintaining soil structure, enhancing organic matter, and reducing the need for chemical inputs, these methods are paving the way for an agricultural model that is not only more productive but also more resilient.

One of the standout examples shared at the Congress was Mexico's ongoing work in using native cacti to rehabilitate abandoned agricultural lands. This strategy not only boosts soil carbon content but also provides a low-water, high-yield crop that supports livestock during critical feeding seasons. Such innovative approaches demonstrate the profound potential of integrating traditional knowledge with modern science to tackle the most pressing challenges in agriculture.

While the Congress celebrated a wide array of agricultural innovations, the most crucial takeaway was the reaffirmation of soil’s pivotal role in addressing climate change. Soil, often overlooked in climate discourse, is one of the planet’s largest carbon sinks, storing more carbon than the atmosphere and all the world’s plants combined. Healthy soils not only capture carbon but also improve water retention, reduce erosion, and enhance biodiversity.

Villalobos underscored the need for science-based policies that prioritize soil health, urging governments to invest in soil conservation as a critical component of climate strategy. "The answer is right beneath our feet," he noted. "By caring for our soils, we can create a ripple effect that touches every aspect of our environment, from cleaner water to more resilient crops."

Source: Secretaría de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural. “Cuenta México con más de 700 mil productores capacitados en el manejo responsable de polinizadores y los recursos agua y suelo: Agricultura.” gob.mx, http://www.gob.mx/agricultura/prensa/cuenta-mexico-con-mas-de-700-mil-productores-capacitados-en-el-manejo-responsable-de-polinizadores-y-los-recursos-agua-y-suelo-agricultura?idiom=es. Accessed 4 Sept. 2024.