Mexico Trains Over 700,000 Farmers in Sustainable Practices

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) has trained more than 700,000 farmers in responsible pollinator management and the sustainable use of water and soil resources, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance food security. Victor Villalobos, Agriculture Minister, highlighted these efforts during the Inter-American Panel discussion at the Third Inter-American Congress on Water, Soil, and Agrobiodiversity (CIASA).

A key initiative discussed was the National Soil Strategy for Sustainable Agriculture (ENASAS), which emphasizes comprehensive soil monitoring, analysis, and conservation. This approach marks a return to recognizing soil as a fundamental element in agricultural activity, Villalobos said.

In addition to soil management, the Ministry has strengthened its work through the National Strategy for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Pollinators (ENCUSP), which underscores the vital role these species play in food production. The Strategic Climate Change Plan for the Agri-Food Sector (PLECCA) was also highlighted, aimed at understanding the impacts of climate change and implementing adaptation measures in agriculture.

During the CIASA event, Villalobos emphasized that agricultural activities, when managed correctly, can be part of the solution to CO2 emissions. Proper soil management, he noted, contributes to reducing greenhouse gas effects and facilitates carbon capture.

One practical example of water conservation in agriculture is the agreement with durum wheat producers in southern Sonora. These farmers have agreed to convert 60,000 ha from wheat to barley, reducing the number of waterings from four to two, with the resulting barley production being purchased by the brewing industry.

These initiatives are part of broader efforts that have already yielded tangible results in improving the quality of life in Mexico. The current administration reports that 10.3 million Mexicans have overcome some level of food insecurity, while 1.9 million people, mainly from rural areas, have risen out of poverty.

Villalobos concluded by stating that the success of these initiatives lies in the Ministry’s commitment to agriculture and the understanding that transforming natural resources into food is a significant responsibility.