Earth Day Stories: Real Hopes From Farmers Around the World (Part 2)
We asked TechnoServe clients—small-scale farmers around the world—to reflect on their connection to the land and their hopes for the Earth and future generations. These are some of their responses.
In honor of Earth Day, we asked TechnoServe clients to share how their relationship with their land has changed since implementing regenerative farming practices and what they want the next generation to know about caring for the earth. Read part one of the series on Earth Day stories.
Earth Day Stories
Suman Rajaram Tad, 52, India
Since we started using regenerative farming practices in our pomegranate orchard and vegetable garden, I’ve seen real improvements. The soil texture and quality are better; it holds water more effectively, and we have more earthworms now. By making our own organic fertilizers with household resources, we’ve saved money and noticed improvements in our income.
I want the next generation to understand that we must change our habits today for a better future and a better environment. Planting different types of trees, improving water retention, and reducing soil erosion are all important. Using traditional biofertilizers like Jeevamrut and natural pest solutions like Panchagavya and Brahmastra can really help. Regenerative farming helps us use our resources more wisely, keeps the soil healthy, gives us good food, and protects the environment.
Mihret Alemu (left), 32, and Duressa Dukamo (right), 36, Ethiopia
We are observing the reappearance of local grasses known as ‘Kendo’ and ‘Shomogicho,’ which had disappeared around six to seven years ago. With the initiation of regenerative practices on our farm, these grasses are now beginning to thrive once more, which brings happiness and instills hope for the health of our soil. We are committed to ensuring that our children and future generations continue to adopt and uphold these regenerative practices.
Claudia Cuenca Ruiz, Mexico
One of the regenerative agriculture practices that has been most beneficial for us is the use of colored adhesive traps, which have significantly reduced crop losses caused by pests. These traps help us capture harmful insects, such as moths, allowing us to accurately identify the type of pest present and apply the appropriate treatment in a targeted manner without affecting the rest of the plant or the soil.
We know what it means when the land doesn’t produce, and we know what happens if we don’t protect the water or mistreat the land. That’s why we’re teaching our children and future generations to avoid making the same mistakes and ensure production.
Cheboriot Evelyn, 50, Uganda
Since I began implementing regenerative practices, my relationship with the land has significantly improved. I’ve adopted the use of organic manure, cover cropping, and crop rotation, which have enhanced soil fertility and structure. I’ve been able to achieve higher yields of better quality compared to previous seasons when I relied on synthetic fertilizers or didn’t use any fertilizers at all. I’ve recognized that organic manure is more environmentally friendly than synthetic fertilizers, and I now feel a sense of responsibility toward the land. I’ve eliminated synthetic chemicals that harm the ecosystem and actively practice soil and water conservation for greater efficiency and sustainability.
Reducing or completely eliminating tree-cutting for firewood has helped me appreciate the vital role trees play in the environment. They contribute to improved soil fertility by providing shade as their leaves decompose to enrich the soil. Trees also control soil erosion, act as windbreaks for crops, and supply fresh air. I’ve switched to using biogas instead of cutting down trees for firewood, which helps protect our environment. I’ve taken to planting and nurturing more trees as a proactive measure against climate change.
Caring for the Earth allows us to protect our soil and boost yields, which is essential for both income and food security. By safeguarding the environment and avoiding the cutting down of trees for firewood, I urge the next generation to embrace organic farming. This sustainable practice, which includes the use of biogas as clean energy, not only provides valuable manure for our gardens but is also environmentally friendly and efficient.
