Regenerative agriculture: "Real transitions cannot be based on marketing claims" (NGOs/farmers' unions)

"In EU policy documents and debates, a diffuse concept of “regenerative” agriculture is increasingly being used to divert policy attention and resources from truly transformative solutions. Real transitions cannot be based on marketing claims that confuse consumers and fragment the integrity of agri-food markets", according to a joint statement from more than 20 environmental NGOs, farmers' unions and civil society actors, released on 02/06/2026.

The statement warns against the misleading use of "regenerative" agriculture in corporate branding and EU policy initiatives.

"What is called “regenerative” can include highly degenerative practices masked by a few cosmetic measures", the signatories said. They also stress that "millions of farmers and territorial food actors are already building resilient food systems rooted in agroecological and organic principles, delivering concrete environmental and social benefits through credible, transparent and accountable approaches".

"The issue is not whether farmers use the word regenerative, but whether EU policy and markets reward real…