Exeter Food Network talk- Dr Sarah Duddigan- Understanding the biophysical processes and extension mechanisms of natural farming

Zero budget natural farming (ZBNF) in Andhra Pradesh (SE India) emphasises synthetic chemical-free inputs and regenerative techniques as a means to achieve socio-ecological resilience for smallholder farmers.  Public messaging about ZBNF describes transformations in the soil through enhanced microbial activity and nutrient availability, and across society, as lower input costs and higher yields are able to protect farmers against debt, food insecurity, and change.  This study explored the accuracy and efficacy of ZBNF public messaging through an interdisciplinary soil and social science investigation, which sought to understand motivations behind the adoption of an agricultural practice projected to reach over six million farmers in Andhra Pradesh by 2024