betterSoil and COP29
Among the many organisations represented at this year's Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, our participation underlined the urgent need to prioritise soil health in the fight against climate change. One of the highlights was the meeting with Prof. Lal.
A day to remember: networking with soil health experts
One of the highlights of our time at COP29 was meeting with Professor Rattan Lal, a renowned soil scientist and a pioneer in studying soil management practices. Prof. Lal’s work has greatly contributed to understanding the vital role that healthy soils play in sustaining ecosystems, enhancing food security, and mitigating climate change impacts. Engaging in discussions with him and other soil health experts allowed us to explore novel insights into soil conservation practices, regenerative agriculture, and innovative solutions to restore degraded land. Networking was a key component of our participation at COP29. We connected with thought leaders such as Helmy Abouleish from SEKEM and Leigh Winowiecki, policymakers, scientists, and fellow entrepreneurs who share our passion for sustainable agriculture and soil health. These discussions not only highlighted the challenges faced by agricultural communities around the world but also emphasized the collaborative efforts needed between different sectors to devise effective solutions.
Innovation, investment and collaborative partnerships
The private sector is at the forefront of innovation, investing in research and development to create technologies that can revolutionize farming practices. At BetterSoil, we are committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology to help farmers improve soil health, optimize nutrient use, and improve crop resilience against climate-related challenges. By harnessing data analytics, satellite imaging, and artificial intelligence, we empower farmers to make informed decisions, ultimately leading to healthier soils and more sustainable agriculture. COP29 highlighted the importance of partnerships between governments, NGOs, and the private sector. Continued collaboration among different stakeholders is essential to share resources, knowledge, and best practices. At BetterSoil, we believe in the power of partnership to drive meaningful change. Engaging with agricultural cooperatives, research institutions, and even competing startups opens up avenues for shared learning and shared success.
Sustainable business models and a call to action
Adopting sustainable business models that place emphasis on environmental stewardship is critical. Businesses that prioritize soil health not only contribute to global efforts against climate change but also enhance their long-term viability. There is growing consumer demand for sustainably produced food, and companies that invest in soil health will stand out in an increasingly conscious market. Our presence at COP29 reinforced a vital message: the health of our soils is inextricably linked to the health of our planet and future food security. The time for action is now. We must collectively mobilize to prioritize soil health, recognizing the essential role it plays in climate resilience and sustainable agriculture. As we move forward from COP29, we are committed to continuing our advocacy for soil health and collaborating with various sectors to inspire positive change. Together, we can pave the way for a healthier planet, resilient agricultural systems, and food security for generations to come.