The future of farming & food: resilience is the new efficiency! (Rogier Schulte)

In this episode of the Deep Seed Podcast, we welcome Rogier Schulte, professor at Wageningen University, to discuss the groundbreaking work he’s leading in regenerative agriculture and resilient farming systems. Rogier introduces the concept of Lighthouse Farms—farms that act as beacons of innovation around the world, proving that sustainable agriculture isn’t just possible, it’s happening right now.Learn how farms in Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Brazil are defying climate challenges by embracing complex rice systems, water resilience strategies, and agroforestry. Rogier explains why resilience is the new efficiency in modern farming, and how science is backing these real-world success stories. Whether you're interested in regenerative agriculture, ecosystem restoration, or the future of food systems, this episode dives deep into practical solutions that are already making a difference.Key topics covered:The global network of Lighthouse Farms and how they’re pioneering resilient agricultureExamples from Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Brazil showcasing diverse, scalable approachesWhy complexity in farming leads to greater resilience against climate and economic shocksThe importance of science-backed regenerative farming systemsThe challenge of scaling local solutions to a global levelJoin us as we explore how farmers, researchers, and innovators are redesigning the future of agriculture. Tune in now to discover how resilience, diversity, and science are shaping the farms of tomorrow!NOTE: Rogier notified me of an error and kindly asked that we add a note here to rectify it: when talking about 'soil carbon levels' of 40-80% in peat soils, it should have been 'soil organic matter' instead.⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯This podcast was produced in partnership with Soil Capital, a company that supports #regenerativeagriculture by financially rewarding farmers who improve soil health.⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯Useful links: Lighthouse Farm Network - https://www.lighthousefarmnetwork.com/Wageningen University - https://www.wur.nl/en.htmSoil Capital - https://www.soilcapital.com/Follow Us: Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content.Instagram: @deep_seed_podcastLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deep-seedEmail - [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.