Advancing regenerative agriculture: WWF-Pakistan brings over 180 farms into the Regenagri programme

Regenagri is proud to partner with WWF-Pakistan in scaling regenerative agriculture across Punjab’s Bahawalpur region. Thanks to WWF-Pakistan’s initiative 189 farms, spanning more than 680 hectares, have now achieved Regenagri certification, underscoring a growing movement towards more sustainable, resilient farming systems in South Asia.

The initiative, funded by local textile groups Sapphire Textile Mills Ltd Pakistan, supports farmers producing a diverse range of crops including cotton, wheat, sesame, chickpea, guar bean and sesbania. With technical assistance and training provided by WWF-Pakistan, participating farms have adopted key regenerative practices such as:

• diversifying crop production
• integrating livestock
• practicing crop rotation
• introducing cover crops
• reducing soil disturbance.

Beyond on-farm interventions, the project has driven broader environmental benefits. Farmers have achieved a 40–50% reduction in synthetic pesticide use by transitioning to bio-based alternatives. In a bid to lower carbon emissions and operational costs, solar-powered sprayers and irrigation systems have replaced conventional fuel-based machinery. Notably, 14% of participating farmland has been dedicated to conservation, supporting biodiversity and ecological restoration. 

Muhammad Mumtaz, a participating farmer, says: 

“By applying fermented farmyard manure, I’ve improved soil health and significantly reduced my reliance on synthetic inputs. The shift to solar-powered tools has been both environmentally and economically beneficial. I’m grateful to WWF-Pakistan for introducing regenerative agriculture to our community and helping us implement it effectively.”

WWF-Pakistan Director General Hammad Naqi Khan states:

“The Regenagri programme has provided WWF-Pakistan with a practical and robust framework for scaling regenerative agriculture on the ground. The structured processes, along with technical training and ongoing support, have enabled us to work closely with farmers in adopting sustainable practices that restore soil health, conserve biodiversity and improve farm resilience.”

Regenagri CEO Franco Costantini adds:

“We are delighted to see WWF-Pakistan and its partner farms gain Regenagri certification. This is a remarkable achievement that reflects a deep commitment to soil health, environmental integrity and community livelihoods. Regenerative agriculture is a global priority, and we look forward to strengthening our collaboration with WWF-Pakistan as their programme continues to grow”.

Main photo: Huzaifa Waheed, Unsplash