Agriculture in Action: Seeds, Pests, and Policy (22–28 September 2025)

Last week SAN members showcased how agroecology, innovation, and strong policy frameworks are shaping the future of sustainable food systems. From pest management breakthroughs to global climate advocacy, here’s a look at some of the stories making an impact.

Agroecology and Healthy Diets

In Peru, RAAA Perú combined practice with education in advancing agroecology. During the week, they shared the benefits of liquid fish fertilizer and the importance of chemical-free broccoli, underscoring agroecology’s role in healthy diets. They also promoted local seed production as a foundation for food sovereignty.

Beyond the farm, RAAA contributed to knowledge exchange: they delivered a keynote presentation on biodiversity management at the National University of Huancavelica and hosted a guided visit for technicians from Agrosalud-Ucayali at their agroecological site in the Chillón Valley. Both events highlighted how agroecology is not only a production model but also a powerful tool for learning, adaptation, and conservation.

Pest & Disease Management

CABI underscored the urgency of pest resilience in the face of climate change. In Peru’s Andes, farmers are turning to beneficial insects and microorganisms rather than chemicals to manage rising pest pressures.

Meanwhile in Pakistan, authorities approved the country’s first official biopesticide registration system, signaling a major step forward in sustainable plant protection. CABI also spotlighted the spread of invasive Parthenium weed and promoted simple, nature-based pest controls like chili pepper sprays.

Conserving Biodiversity

In Romania, Fundatia Adept is mobilizing farmers and rural communities to restore and protect priority habitats in Târnava Mare, reinforcing the link between conservation, traditions, and local livelihoods.

Biodiversity also took center stage in awareness campaigns. Rainforest Alliance and RSPB sounded the alarm on the dramatic decline of insect populations, reminding us that without pollinators and the ecosystems they sustain, food systems and human well-being are at risk.

Standards and Supply Chains

Across supply chains, SAN members reinforced the importance of credible standards and transparency. In the Philippines, Preferred by Nature certified a smallholder banana growers cooperative under its Carbon Footprint Certification, supporting farmers’ efforts to improve sustainability.

CottonConnect showcased its REEL programmes, which provide extensive training, verification, and traceability to ensure sustainable cotton production. The organization also marked International Organic Day, celebrating the role of organic farming in protecting the environment and delivering chemical- and GMO-free products.

Policy and Global Advocacy

Fundación Global Nature broke down the EU Nature Restoration Act into 10 key points, helping stakeholders understand its practical implications for ecosystem recovery.

At Climate Week NYC, the Rainforest Alliance was highly visible in discussions linking regenerative agriculture, biodiversity, and nature-based solutions. Their interventions underscored a growing consensus: tackling nature loss is not only vital for the planet but also essential for long-term business resilience.

🌱 From community-led conservation in Romania to climate advocacy in New York, this week’s highlights show how SAN members are tackling global challenges through innovation, policy, and inclusivity. Follow us for more updates as our network continues to plant the seeds of a sustainable future.