Grupo Bimbo announced that it has surpassed its own record in the number of hectares within its regenerative agriculture program. The bakery company had planned to reach 150 thousand hectares by the end of its 2023 cycle under this program and managed to exceed that goal with 170 thousand hectares in total, in countries such as Mexico, the United States, Canada and France. This figure includes 7,000 hectares of corn, as well as an increase of 16 thousand hectares of wheat.
But what is regenerative agriculture? It is a series of practices that improve soil health, capture carbon and protect the water cycle, to name a few. The goal of this program is to reduce soil erosion, increase biodiversity and strengthen farming communities.
The Regenerative Agriculture initiative also seeks to improve soil health through practices that help manage water use more efficiently, help increase yield per hectare and seek the reduction and capture of greenhouse gas emissions ( which contribute to global warming and climate change). All of the above to ensure healthy soil,which not only allows for the transformation of agriculture,but also guarantees a more lasting global food system for future generations. That is why Grupo Bimbo also supports farmers in this transition, so that they have the necessary knowledge and techniques to take care of the health of the soil.
Great advances in the regenerative agriculture program
In Mexico, Grupo Bimbo’s regenerative agriculture program has made important progress thanks to alliances with suppliers and expert organizations, such as the collaboration with the International Maize and Wheat Enhancement Center (CIMMyT).Consequently of this joint work, in 2023, 8,390 hectares of wheat were grown using regenerative agriculture techniques, which allowed a 15% increase in productivity in the use of water in irrigation (compared to conventional practices). Likewise, there was a 50% reduction in CO2e emissions compared to conventional agricultural practices. In turn, more than 7,300 hectares of corn were grown with this type of sustainable practices, which resulted in a 3% increase in productivity in the use of water for irrigation compared to conventional practices, as well as the reduction of CO2e emissions from approximately 55%, compared to conventional agricultural practices.
Other alliances have allowed expert knowledge to be brought to various rural communities so that farmers begin to use this type of regenerative agriculture practices, and thus increase their productivity and improve the well-being of their families.
In the North American region, for its part, through Grupo Bimbo’s regenerative agriculture project, more than 146 thousand hectares of wheat have been planted using this technique. In the United States alone, 127 thousand hectares have been registered, while in canada 19 thousand hectares.
Alejandra Vázquez Langle, Global Director of Sustainability, commented: “Grupo Bimbo advances in regenerative agriculture with a vision that combines sustainability with economic impact and social well-being. “We are making very good progress towards our 2050 goal of having 100% of our key ingredients come from land cultivated with regenerative agriculture practices.”
– How is Grupo Bimbo planning to achieve its goal of 100% regenerative farming by 2050?
Interview with Alejandra Vázquez Langle: Advancing Regenerative Agriculture at Grupo Bimbo
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Alejandra. Grupo Bimbo has exceeded its goal in regenerative agriculture by reaching 170,000 hectares. What does this achievement mean for the company and the agriculture sector as a whole?
Alejandra Vázquez Langle: Thank you for having me. Surpassing our goal is not just a milestone for Grupo Bimbo; it signifies a major shift in how agriculture can evolve toward sustainability. Regenerative agriculture practices improve soil health, enhance biodiversity, and support local farming communities, thereby creating a more resilient food system. We’re proud to set an example for other companies to follow, demonstrating that sustainable practices can lead to both environmental and economic benefits.
Time.news Editor: Can you explain what regenerative agriculture entails and how it differs from conventional practices?
Alejandra Vázquez Langle: Regenerative agriculture involves a variety of practices aimed at restoring soil health, capturing carbon, and protecting water resources. Unlike conventional practices, which often deplete soil and can lead to erosion, regenerative agriculture focuses on enhancing biodiversity and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As a notable example, in our partnerships with organizations like CIMMyT, we’ve seen significant increases in productivity and reductions in water usage and emissions in crops grown using regenerative methods, such as wheat and corn.
Time.news Editor: It’s extraordinary to see such concrete outcomes. How has Grupo Bimbo supported farmers in adopting these regenerative practices?
Alejandra Vázquez Langle: Our approach includes building alliances with suppliers and experts to provide farmers with the necessary knowledge and techniques for regenerative agriculture. This collaboration has already shown results—over 8,390 hectares of wheat and more than 7,300 hectares of corn were cultivated using these techniques in Mexico, leading to a remarkable productivity increase and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.
Time.news Editor: How do you think the success of your regenerative agriculture program will influence the larger food industry?
Alejandra Vázquez langle: As more companies recognize the importance of sustainability, we hope to inspire a broader movement towards regenerative agriculture. By proving that these practices lead to economic vitality and environmental stewardship, we can encourage other players in the food industry to adopt similar methods. This shift could not only improve the health of our planet but also ensure food security for future generations.
Time.news Editor: With such aspiring goals, what future targets does Grupo Bimbo have regarding regenerative agriculture?
Alejandra Vázquez langle: Our long-term goal is quite clear: by 2050, we aim for 100% of our key ingredients to come from land cultivated with regenerative practices. We’re committed to ongoing research and collaboration to enhance our farming methods and achieve this vision. Sustainability must be integrated into our business model, and we will continue making strides in this area.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, what advice would you give to farmers looking to transition to regenerative agriculture?
Alejandra Vázquez Langle: My advice is to start small and seek out partnerships and resources available through organizations that specialize in regenerative practices. Adaptation takes time,but by focusing on improving soil health and sustainability,farmers can see significant benefits—both in productivity and in contributing to a healthier planet. Embracing this change is worthwhile, not just for the present, but for the well-being of future generations.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Alejandra, for sharing your insights and the inspiring progress Grupo Bimbo is making in regenerative agriculture. It’s exciting to see how sustainability can be woven into the fabric of the food industry!
Alejandra Vázquez Langle: thank you! It’s a pleasure to discuss these vital topics. We’re all in this together, and I’m optimistic about the future of regenerative agriculture.