Regenerative agriculture is more than a farming method—it’s a revolution in how we interact with the earth. By prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience, this practice offers sustainable solutions for food security and climate challenges. In this interview, we speak with Milos Radunovic, a passionate advocate of regenerative farming and the founder of Mala Basta, a small business dedicated to sustainable practices. His inspiring journey and insights highlight how individuals and communities can embrace this transformative approach.

Regenerative agriculture is clearly a very sustainable form. Please explain to us in more detail how it regenerates, what it actually regenerates, and what the key benefits are.

Regenerative agriculture focuses on healing and improving the health of our ecosystems, starting with the soil. The regenerative process begins by preserving what we already have and avoiding harmful practices. For example, excessive tilling disrupts the natural structure of the soil and eradicates essential microorganisms. The first step is to eliminate such damaging practices.

From there, smart resource management becomes crucial. This involves practices such as mulching, rotational grazing, composting, and cover cropping. These methods not only prevent further degradation but also actively rebuild soil health. They restore fertility, enhance water retention, and improve resilience to environmental stressors.

The essence of regeneration lies in nurturing all the life that soil supports, from microorganisms to plants and animals. By fostering this biodiversity, regenerative practices create ecosystems that are self-sustaining and interconnected. Farms can achieve this by functioning within their own systems or collaborating with other farms practicing regenerative methods, contributing to a circular economy within their communities.

The key benefits of this approach are profound. Healthy, biodiverse soil leads to fertile land that produces resilient crops. These ecosystems are more harmonious and balanced, with less reliance on external inputs like synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Additionally, food grown in these systems often has extraordinary taste and health benefits, as the plants are enriched by nutrient-dense soils. Regenerative farming also improves yields and enhances resistance to challenges like weather fluctuations and pest pressures, making it a robust solution for sustainable food production.

What does one need to start this practice in their own garden, or even balcony?

Starting regenerative agriculture in a small space like a garden or balcony requires little more than a willingness to experiment and embrace the dynamics of nature. Basic gardening tools, seeds, and soil are all that’s needed to begin. Any soil, regardless of its starting condition, can be improved with good care. Adding natural compost, using mulching techniques, and avoiding synthetic chemicals are key steps to building a healthy foundation for your plants.

For those transitioning from conventional farming, the process involves more significant shifts. Eliminating tilling, synthetic pesticides, and fertilizers is critical. Creating a compost heap and practicing heavy mulching are excellent starting points. Over time, as the soil recovers, the benefits of regenerative methods will become increasingly apparent.

Is this a practice that can be applied on a larger scale?

Absolutely. Regenerative agriculture is already being implemented on large scales across the globe, with remarkable success. Farms using these practices often report higher yields than conventional ones, along with improved soil health and ecosystem resilience. Scaling up regenerative methods not only proves their viability but also underscores their potential to address global challenges like food security and climate change.

Do you see threats to this approach to agriculture with the current changes in climate that we are experiencing (e.g., more drought, heavy rainfall, changes in temperature)?

Regenerative agriculture may be one of the best tools we have to combat the effects of climate change. This approach mimics natural systems that have evolved to endure a variety of environmental conditions over millennia. Practices like building organic matter in the soil improve water retention during droughts and enhance drainage during heavy rains. The diversity and resilience inherent in regenerative systems make them better equipped to adapt to changing climates. Far from being threatened, regenerative agriculture offers a solution to many of the challenges posed by climate change.

What are the long-term effects on the crops and the seeds? Can products from regenerative agriculture be part of the ‘bio’ offer of produce in the mainstream food supply?

The long-term effects of regenerative agriculture on crops and seeds are incredibly promising. Over time, plants grown in nutrient-rich soils develop higher nutrient densities, providing more health benefits to consumers. Seeds produced in these systems often exhibit better viability and germination rates, as they are adapted to thrive in balanced, biodiverse ecosystems.

Products from regenerative agriculture not only fit within the ‘bio’ or organic category but also have the potential to set a new standard for sustainability and quality in mainstream food supply chains. Consumer demand for these products is growing, driven by increased awareness of their benefits. With the knowledge readily available and the visible advantages of regenerative practices, these products can play a significant role in transforming our food systems for the better.