Sustainability Magazine August 2025 | Page 75

SUSTAINABILITY

“This transition demands knowledge from the past, in particular indigenous knowledge”

CAITLIN LEIBERT, VICE PRESIDENT OF SUSTAINABILITY, WHOLE FOODS MARKET
“ Farmers often face upfront costs when adopting regenerative practices like cover cropping, rotational grazing and reduced tillage, and it can take years to see the benefits. Additionally, access to education and infrastructure can be a barrier, as many farms need technical support and financial incentives to transition.”
Collaboration, she feels, is key to overcoming these challenges.“ We work with industry associations, policymakers and suppliers to create solutions that ease the burden on farmers,” Caitlin says.
“ New innovations and technology, such as precision agriculture, can also play a role in making these transitions smoother, offering tools that increase efficiency and reduce waste without compromising soil health.
“ This transition demands knowledge from the past, in particular indigenous knowledge, alongside support in the present and future facing solutions to drive the change in the food system that is needed.” sustainabilitymag. com 75