Nestlé and Sustainable Business Academy launch soil regenerative agriculture training for young farmers

Soil is the key to the future – the theme and purpose of the course

The joint five-week online training by Nestlé and SBA supports young farmers under the age of 40 in responding to the biggest challenges affecting agriculture. challenges – from climate change to soil depletion and irrigation issues. The program provides insight into the practical foundations of soil health preservation and soil renewal (regenerative) farming, and shows how to simultaneously increase the resilience and profitability of a farm while reducing environmental impact.

The five-week program, which starts on January 5, consists of a total of 4 + 1 subjects, which are complemented by online videos, practical exercises, case studies and supplementary materials. During the course, participants can learn from representatives of renowned organizations and institutions such as WWF Hungary, the Soil Science Institute of the HUN-REN Agricultural Research Center, and the University of Miskolc. The learning units cover the basic concepts of sustainability, the effects of climate change on agriculture, methods of preserving soil health, issues of generational change and the most important practices of regenerative agriculture. At the end of the course, participants can learn firsthand how a farm working with soil renewal methods works in practice during a farm visit.

Nestlé’s commitment to a sustainable future

Nestlé has been working in Hungary for years to support the sustainable transformation of domestic agriculture together with its partners. The company launched a regenerative agriculture program in 2021, which already operates on 13,000 hectares with the involvement of 22 farmers. Participants will introduce soil regenerative practices into their farms that help maintain soil fertility, improve water retention and increase biodiversity.

The online course now being launched serves to share this experience more widely, while also fitting into the global Nestlé Needs YOUth initiative, which supports the professional development of young people across Europe.

“We believe that the future of agriculture lies in the regenerative approach. Our joint training with the SBA provides up-to-date knowledge and inspiring examples of regenerative agriculture to the participating young farmers. We hope that more and more people will then put the theory into practice to build a more resilient, profitable and sustainable economy”

– says Hőgyész Anna, Sustainability Manager at Nestlé Hungary.

“Agriculture is one of the most environmentally damaging industries, but it is also where the most opportunities, knowledge and practical experience are found for how businesses operating in the industry can regenerate natural resources through their core operations. Therefore, we believe it is crucial to provide practical, hands-on knowledge and tools for farmers”

– says Gábor Lévai, founder of the Sustainable Business Academy.

The joint program between Nestlé and SBA not only provides professional training, but also builds an inspiring community. The aim of the initiative is for the next generation to adopt agricultural models that not only preserve but also renew natural resources.

You can apply for the one and a half month training by clicking HERE.