Why HongIk ECO Farm wants to practice and teach regenerative agriculture

At HongIk ECO Farm, we believe there’s a special relationship between humans and the earth.  “Take care of me, and I’ll take care of you” is our unspoken promise…but it feels like we’ve not held up our end of the bargain.  

If you’ve ever wondered what more you could do to care for the planet and help combat climate change, one of our biggest allies is literally under our feet.   Soil is an abundant, yet unassuming resource that holds significant potential to combat climate change in practical, measurable ways.  By harnessing the power of soil to address the growing problem of climate change, we can pave the way for a world we all want to live in.

The process of carbon sequestration lies at the heart of what makes soil act as a “natural carbon sink”, able to absorb and store carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. It involves plants converting CO2 into organic matter through photosynthesis, with a significant portion of this organic matter being subsequently transferred into the soil.  Over time it becomes stable and can store CO2 for extended periods. Properly managed, soil can retain this carbon for centuries, effectively reducing the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere and mitigating the greenhouse effect.  Here are a few ways we can maximize soil’s potential as a carbon sink:

Cover Cropping: By planting crops that protect and enrich the soil during off-seasons, we can enhance soil fertility, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration.

Reduced Tillage: Minimizing plowing and cultivating the soil helps maintain its structure and prevents the release of stored carbon. 

Crop Rotation: Rotating crops on the same piece of land improves soil health and productivity while sequestering more carbon.

Composting: Recycling organic waste into compost not only reduces methane emissions but also enriches the soil with valuable nutrients and organic matter.

The challenges we face regarding climate change will require all our help.  We must unite in adopting sustainable land management practices, promoting afforestation, and protecting natural ecosystems. By harnessing the power of soil and working together, we can secure a brighter future for ourselves and the planet we call home.