Large scale agriculture conjures up images of vast fields of the same crop. But this single crop mentality is part of the reason commercial agriculture is struggling. Implementing regenerative agriculture practices, such as crop diversification, crop cover, livestock rotation, and composting, can improve crop yields and can help capture more carbon in the soil, offsetting human emissions. So why aren’t more farmers doing it?

Most farms are set up with single crop infrastructure. We shared a story yesterday about how state initiatives can help farmers implement regenerative practices, but technology is also a key player in this transition. AI technologies, like FarmShots and Vine View, use aerial view drone footage to monitor hydration and crop healths. Another thing that can help is smartphone apps, like Plantix, which can identify plant diseases and recommend treatment. Countries like Australia have even adopted carbon credit programs for farmers who adopt regenerative practices to provide an economic incentive for going green.

Adopting large scale regenerative agriculture will require a major mindset shift in our food systems. But with less pollution, more carbon capture, and healthier crops, it’s the way of the future, and tech can help us get there.