By Jamie Martin
Syngenta and Groundwork BioAg have announced a strategic partnership focused on advancing biological agriculture and soil carbon solutions for farmers.
The collaboration combines crop performance technologies with carbon-focused programs that can support both productivity and environmental goals. Syngenta will market biological products based on mycorrhizal fungi while Groundwork BioAg will oversee production, supply management, digital platforms, and carbon program implementation.
“The model we've built with Groundwork BioAg goes beyond farming carbon - it builds resilience, restores soil health, and accumulates long term carbon stocks at a remarkable pace, while generating carbon credits from which farmers directly benefit. We see this as a natural evolution of what carbon programs can achieve,” said Petra Laux, Chief Sustainability Officer of Syngenta Group.
The program will first serve growers producing corn, soybeans, cereals, and sunflowers in Latin America and Europe. By improving nutrient uptake and plant health, the technology is expected to help crops perform better under stressful growing conditions.
“This partnership provides commercial validation of our technology and is expected to generate a substantial source of revenue for farmers and Groundwork over the next few years,” said Alon Werber, CEO of Groundwork BioAg.
He added, “By combining Syngenta's market access with our proven mycorrhizal capabilities, we are positioning mycorrhizal fungi as both a valuable agronomic input and a significant pathway for agricultural climate mitigation through our end-to-end carbon program.”
Leaders from both companies believe the partnership can create long-term value for agriculture. The program is designed to support soil improvement while also allowing farmers to participate in carbon credit opportunities that may generate additional farm revenue.
“This partnership reflects how biologicals are increasingly becoming a central part of agriculture. Nature-inspired solutions give farmers effective, reliable tools, while also providing concrete agronomical returns,” said Emilhano Lima, Global Head Seedcare & Biologicals.
Mycorrhizal fungi play a key role in the initiative. These naturally occurring fungi connect with plant root systems and help crops access nutrients and water more effectively. This relationship can improve plant growth while contributing to stronger and healthier soils.
The technology also supports soil carbon sequestration, a natural process that captures carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and stores it in the soil. Increased carbon levels can improve soil fertility, enhance moisture retention, and reduce the impact of drought and erosion.
Company representatives highlighted that biological products are becoming an important tool in modern farming as growers seek productive and sustainable solutions. Nature-based technologies can help farmers meet production goals while improving environmental outcomes.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: National