MANILA — In the evolving world of agriculture, the intersection of science and sustainability is leading to a new approach: regenerative agriculture.

This practice seeks to maximize productivity while preserving and enhancing the ecosystem’s health. According to Dr. Saturnina Halos, a renowned biotechnologist, regenerative agriculture is transforming traditional farming methods to correct practices proven harmful to the environment.

Dr. Halos, who chairs the Biotechnology Coalition of the Philippines, emphasized the role of scientific research in restoring and improving soil health and overall agricultural systems.

“It takes technologies—both traditional and modern—which are assessed in terms of how they can improve and maintain agricultural productivity while, at the same time, mitigate effects on the environment,” she explained.

One key aspect of regenerative agriculture, Halos noted, is the shift from synthetic fertilizers and pesticides to organic, microbial, and plant-based alternatives, known as biopesticides and biofertilizers. Unlike standard pesticides, which kill insects indiscriminately and sometimes harm animals and humans, these natural alternatives are designed to target specific pests while minimizing negative environmental impacts.

Synthetic fertilizers, on the other hand, can degrade soil structure over time, making it less productive. In contrast, biofertilizers promote root growth and help plants become more resistant to drought.

Halos pointed out that biofertilizers were first developed at the University of the Philippines in Los Baños and can reduce the need for inorganic fertilizers by up to half the recommended rate.

A new biopesticide, currently under review by the Department of Agriculture, specifically targets the fall armyworm, a pest that has recently plagued local crops and proved resistant to conventional commercial pesticides. This biopesticide contains a bacterium and fungus that attack insects without harming livestock or humans.

Though biofertilizers and biopesticides are not new, Halos said their adoption has been slow due to marketing challenges. She highlighted the Neem tree as a longstanding example of natural pest control and fertilization. Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, Neem has been studied for its effectiveness since the 1950s, particularly in India, where it has long been used by farmers.

In addition to natural solutions, genetically engineered crop varieties are emerging as key components of regenerative agriculture. Dr. Halos cited Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn and Bt eggplant, crops engineered to carry genes that make them pest-resistant, significantly reducing the need for pesticides.

Some genetically engineered crops are also being developed to improve nitrogen uptake, allowing farmers to use less nitrogen-based fertilizer.

“The primary goal of regenerative agriculture is to ensure food security by maintaining the productivity of the land,” Halos stated.

“It does this by providing farmers methods and tools that are safer for both agriculture and the environment.”

As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, regenerative agriculture—guided by scientific advancements—offers a promising path toward sustainable food production and ecosystem health.

📷 Biotech For Life Project