About

Liron Israeli, CEO of Living Land, demonstrates differences in soil structure in the observation plots. March 2024

Why Soil Health?

Soil health is the foundation of high-quality, sustainable agriculture. A thriving soil ecosystem enhances crop resilience, optimizes resource efficiency, and reduces reliance on pesticides and chemical fertilizers. A well-balanced agricultural system fosters biodiversity, supporting pollinators and natural predators that contribute to ecological stability.

Agriculture serves a broad spectrum of functions—ensuring food and fiber production, shaping landscapes, and preserving environmental integrity. It maintains the deep connection between people and their land, embodying the interconnectedness of all natural elements—living organisms, plants, and the physical environment—as part of a holistic ecological system.

In Israel, where high population density and limited land resources present unique challenges, agroecological farming plays a crucial role. This approach enables productive and resilient agriculture while reducing environmental impact, strengthening the relationship between agricultural landscapes and the urban spaces that surround them.

The "Green fallow" plot in Gvar'am, before the planting of cover crops and after a landslide event on the plot. December 2023

The Israel Cotton Board (ICB) launched the Soil Health Project as part of its commitment to enhancing agricultural performance under the Better Cotton standard for sustainable cotton production.

This initiative aims to develop an innovative cultivation protocol that integrates soil conservation, fertility restoration, and erosion control while reducing reliance on external inputs. By prioritizing long-term soil health, the project seeks to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of the cotton sector.

Pioneering Change in the Field

Meet the farms at the forefront of this transformation. With the support of agronomic advisors, researchers, and leading agricultural companies, these farms are pioneering the integration of service crops as a sustainable alternative to the traditional winter fallow method in cotton cultivation. Through these trials, we are shaping the future of soil health and sustainable farming practices.

A ladybug beetle in the "green fallow" plot in Sha'albim. March 2024

Project Structure

The project is professionally managed by Adama Haya in collaboration with participating farms, extension teams, researchers, and leading agricultural companies. Together, they are testing and refining agricultural practices designed to enhance soil health within the cotton production cycle.

In its initial phase, the focus is on integrating cover crops, or "green fallow," as a sustainable alternative to the conventional "winter fallow" method. The traditional approach often leads to soil structure degradation and environmental harm, whereas cover crops offer a regenerative solution that improves soil stability and biodiversity.

The project aims to develop a comprehensive cultivation protocol that promotes soil conservation, fertility restoration, and erosion reduction while minimizing reliance on external inputs. By fostering healthier soils, this initiative contributes to the long-term resilience and sustainability of the cotton sector.

Supporters

The project was launched with the support of key funding organizations that drive ongoing efforts to enhance agricultural sustainability and innovation.

Better Cotton (BC)
A global organization committed to advancing sustainable cotton production and supporting farming communities. Its initiatives focus on improving cultivation practices, safeguarding natural resources, and promoting environmental stewardship. Through the adoption of eco-friendly growing methods, Better Cotton emphasizes soil health, efficient water management, and reduced pesticide reliance. Additionally, the organization invests in research and development to continuously refine sustainable agricultural practices, empowering cotton-growing communities and setting a new benchmark for responsible cotton production.

Jewish National Fund (JNF)

Committed to environmental stewardship and nation-building, JNF prioritizes sustainable development through strategic initiatives. Its efforts focus on transforming the Galilee and Negev into thriving hubs for agriculture, tourism, and technology, enhancing Israel’s water management infrastructure, and funding research to improve water use efficiency. Additionally, JNF collaborates with diverse stakeholders to tackle environmental challenges, reinforcing Israel’s long-term commitment to sustainability and ecological resilience.