EUCORD does not promote GMOs or genetically modified organisms in its projects. EUCORD promotes both open-pollinated varieties and hybrid varieties developed through conventional plant breeding.
Conventional farming refers to methods that require external (chemical) inputs, advanced agricultural techniques and monocropping. By contrast, regenerative farming refers to practices that rely less on the use of external inputs, that promote crop diversification, and a more sustainable land-use. EUCORD doesn’t exclude the use of external inputs but we do promote agricultural practices that favour sustainable land use, such as crop rotation, agroforestry, minimum tillage, the use of organic fertilizer and bio-pesticides.
Farmers in Africa often struggle with hostile conditions, including degraded soils, drought and a large variety crop diseases and pests. EUCORD facilitates access to organic and mineral fertilizers and, when necessary, crop protection products that meet WHO standards and are registered locally. We also train farmers on the safe handling and correct use of any chemical inputs.