Russia–Ukraine War: How Regenerative Practices Can Reduce Input Shortages

Brazilian agriculture faced an unexpected problem when the war between Russia and Ukraine threatened fertilizer supplies. This is because the country imports 85% of the fertilizers it uses (mainly potassium), with Russia supplying more than 20%. The work now is to reverse this scenario, seeking solutions that guarantee less dependence on these imported inputs, especially for small producers who, with less cash to build up inventories, remain in a state of constant concern about the future of their crops.

What do the experts say?

Some experts say that there will certainly be global shortages (which were already emerging at the time of writing). On the one hand, there is already government action, such as the recent launch of the National Fertilizer Plan, which aims to put into practice actions to balance production and purchase of these products, by 2050. However, new initiatives can be taken more immediately so that in the next harvests, producers – more specifically small and medium-sized ones – do not suffer losses.

Conventional Brazilian farming systems depend heavily on specific chemical inputs and soil nutrient correction to maintain economically viable productivity. In areas of the Cerrado biome, this need intensifies even more, increasing dependence on NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium). However, our tropical agriculture allows us to think about soil improvement processes that are not exclusively related to pesticides and chemical fertilizers.

How can agroforestry systems contribute?

Agroforestry systems are a real alternative for producers. In general, they combine species and production processes in biodiverse systems, even on poor or degraded land, involving not only the reconstitution of soil characteristics, but also the recovery of the landscape as a whole and a considerable increase in options in the face of market fluctuations and climate change.

Agroforestry as an alternative in practice

Agroforestry production meets the current demand for regenerative and sustainable agriculture, in addition to being a strong ally in the process of 'liberation' from full dependence on fertilizers.

Biomass production as an alternative

Biomass production also supports this approach. The planting of service species is also important for the production of biomass through pruning, and is used to protect the soil, retaining moisture and creating a microclimate not only for the good development of seedlings, but also promoting life in the soil. Service species also help to decompact the soil, as their growing roots percolate to different depths, allowing greater water infiltration. Furthermore, they provide initial shade for species with a longer cycle, and can also produce fruit and attract pollinators.

In addition to these points, this system offers benefits compared with conventional agriculture, such as the recovery of soil fertility, with reduced erosion, increased water infiltration, and consequently, the conservation of rivers and springs. Also noteworthy is the increase in species diversity, favoring the natural control of pests and diseases and the diversification of production, so that the farmer does not depend on a single market.