How Syngenta Uses Technology to Deliver Regenerative Farming

Of all the sectors slapped for revolution-by-AI, agriculture may be one of the first to feel the benefit.

Investment in artificial intelligence by the farming industry is a project to expand massively within the next three years, almost tripling from US$1.7bn to US$4.7bn by 2028.

At the end of the day, the goal of AI is to simplify complicated processes. AI should allow its users to increase their efficiency at work, ultimately cutting costs and boosting profits and yields.

It's a huge financial opportunity, and this is how many farmers and agricultural organisations view the technology.

Additionally, AI is being discussed as a potential driving force for the implementation of sustainable farming practices .

With food producers facing mounting pressure in both supply and demand - from the dual externalities of climate change and population growth - AI could provide the sector with a means of achieving sustainable practices and sustainable profits.

The inside track on regenerative farming technology

Agriculture accounts for approximately a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it a significant contributor to climate change. Yet it also holds the potential to be a powerful force in sustainability.

Regenerative agriculture, which emphasises improving soil health, biodiversity and ecosystem services , offers a path forward.

By adopting practices such as reduced tillage, cover cropping and crop rotation, farmers can enhance carbon sequestration while improving soil fertility and resilience.

“At its core, regenerative agriculture is about working with nature, not against it,” says Jeff Rowe, a fifth-generation farmer and CEO of Syngenta Group , a leading agricultural technology company.

With his grassroots farming knowhow and his board level business experience, Jeff arguably understands the benefits of regenerative farming technology better than anyone. 

On his 3,000 acre farm in Illinois, he has implemented several regenerative practices. These include no-till farming and precision application of inputs, which have led to tangible improvements.

"We’ve seen higher levels of organic matter and active carbon, as well as increases in water retention and nutrient availability," he explains, pointing to the measurable benefits of these methods.

Research indicates that the widespread adoption of regenerative practices could play a huge part in achieving global climate goals.

Expanding these methods to 40% of global farmland, for instance, could strengthen food system resilience while reducing environmental degradation.

However, transitioning to such systems requires substantial investments in knowledge, equipment, and time—barriers that many farmers find difficult to overcome without support.

How AI and digital technologies can improve farming around the world

AI and digital technologies are increasingly being leveraged to support regenerative practices and optimise agricultural productivity.

Advanced tools such as satellite imagery, drone monitoring and soil mapping provide farmers with unprecedented insights into their fields.

These technologies enable precise application of water, fertilisers and pesticides, all of which can help us to reduce waste and lessen the environmental impacts of farming.

Jeff is a strong proponent of this idea. “Predictive performance analytics are revolutionising farm management by harnessing historical data through artificial intelligence and machine learning,” he explains.

By analysing historical and real-time data, farmers can anticipate issues like pest outbreaks or soil nutrient deficiencies, making informed decisions that boost yields while minimising ecological harm.

The economic implications are significant. A recent study suggested that farmers adopting precision agriculture could see profit increases of up to 120%.

In low-and middle-income countries, it is said that digital technologies could boost agricultural GDP by over US$450bn annually, improving equity and productivity in one fell swoop.

How can policy help farmers achieve sustainability?

Despite its promise, the adoption of regenerative and AI-driven agriculture remains uneven, often hampered by financial and technical barriers. Policymakers and industry stakeholders must collaborate to address these challenges.

Providing financial incentives, such as grants or subsidies for adopting sustainable practices, could offset the initial costs of transition.

“Policymakers, businesses and governmental bodies must collaborate in addressing farmers' financial and technological requirements,” says Jeff.

Carbon markets, which reward farmers for sequestering carbon, offer one avenue for economic incentives.

Additionally, expanding education and extension services can equip farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to implement new methods effectively.​​​​​​​

According to Syngenta, collaboration across sectors is also essential. “By working together, we can uncover new opportunities, build resilience and grow,” explain Katie Kurz, Global Head of Executive Communications and Employee Engagement at Syngenta.

And Syngenta is already implementing these ideas. In the company's recent work with McDonald’s and Lopez Foods, it has helped to improve the sustainability of beef production.

“We need all players in the complex ecosystem surrounding farmers to create meaningful incentives for adopting technology and regenerative practices in a meaningful way,” Jeff says.

The role of industry and innovation

The intersection of regenerative agriculture and AI reflects a broader shift towards sustainability that's happening within the agricultural sector, which Kate reflects on.

"It can be tempting to maintain the status quo, stick to familiar methods, and focus on stability," she says. "While it may feel secure, this approach can hold back progress and innovation."

And whilst these advancements may reduce demand for traditional crop protection products, they align with a long-term vision of creating value for both farmers and consumers.

"We promote this approach with the full understanding that it might ultimately reduce demand for crop protection products and pesticides," says Jeff.

"Our guiding principle is to create more value for our customers by developing solutions that help farmers to sustainably produce healthy food for society."

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