Can regenerative farming help reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

WVXU turned to a University of Cincinnati professor to discuss ways that regenerative agriculture is helping to protect soil and reduce carbon emissions that contribute to climate change.

WVXU's Cincinnati Edition spoke to UC College of Arts and Sciences Assistant Professor-Educator Teri Jacobs, undergraduate director of environmental studies, about how farming practices can make a difference in reducing carbon emissions.

“We're losing our soil faster than it's being replenished. If that keeps going, we won't have soil fertility. I'm sure everyone remembers the Dust Bowl,” Jacobs told WVXU host Lucy May

Jacobs said regenerative agriculture alone won't solve the climate crisis, but it will play a role in addressing the problem.

“What we need is not just stopping emissions but drawing excess carbon out of the amtospher into our plant life and soils. Soils are the greatest terrestrial sink to store carbon on the planet,” she said. 

Jacobs was joined by Jon Branstrator, owner of the fifth-generation Branstrator Farm in Clarksville, Ohio.

Jacobs said he adopted practices such as using cover crops and doing no-till planting recommended by the Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District.

“Wow, my soil is getting spongier. My water is infiltrating. I like it,” Branstrator said. “I don't love all the hours I spend tilling, so if I could do no-till planting, that frees up a lot of time so I can enjoy kayaking and other endeavors.”

Listen to WVXU's Cincinnati Edition.

Featured image at top: WVXU's Cincinnati Edition examined practices related to regenerative farming as a way to address excess greenhouse gases. Photo/iStockPhoto