Agribusiness is one of the driving forces of the Brazilian economy — accounting for 27% of GDP, nearly half of all exports, and one in every five formal jobs. Powered by innovation, technology, and unique natural resources, Brazil has become a global leader in food production and exports.
This leadership position, however, brings growing pressure on natural resources — making it increasingly urgent for transition to more efficient, lower-impact production models . With its rich biomes and vast forest cover, Brazil holds a strategic role in the global debate on climate transition, land use, and food security.
The good news: Brazilian agriculture has the potential to position the country as a global leader in applied climate solutions and innovative public policy. Practices such as land restoration, no-till farming, integrated systems, and waste management can boost a low-carbon agriculture that is economically viable and socially inclusive.
Brazilian agriculture is on the frontlines of climate change which directly affect productivity, food security, and the sector’s overall competitiveness.
In recent years, Brazil has experienced an uptick in extreme weather events such as prolonged droughts, heatwaves, and heavy rainfall. These phenomena disrupts agricultural production, resulting in significant losses and higher production costs.
Studies indicate that crops such as soybeans, coffee, maize, and rice are particularly vulnerable to climate change. Projections suggest a potential reduction of up to 40% in soybean productivity under more critical scenarios by 2070.
Water scarcity, worsened by irregular rainfall patterns and rising temperatures, threatens irrigation systems and water availability for crops. With only 5% of agricultural land in Brazil under irrigation, most farming remains heavily dependent on rainfall..
In light of these challenges, it is essential to invest in climate-resilient and sustainable agricultural practices — such as integrated production systems, land restoration, and efficient natural resource management.
Brazil has the potential to become a global leader through the adoption of climate solutions applied to agriculture, by way of regenerative practices that reduce emissions and promote carbon sequestration — combining science, public policy, and financing.
The transition to more sustainable production models is not only a response to climate challenges, but also a major opportunity for economic growth in Brazilian agribusiness, including through the generation of carbon credits.
With the right technology, technical expertise, and proper incentives, Brazilian agriculture is well positioned to boost productivity, generate income, ensure food security, and contribute meaningfully to global climate mitigation.
To realise this potential, it is essential that businesses and governments align their strategies in a coordinated way — maximising benefits and minimising risks. Brazil plays a key role on the international stage, balancing food production, energy security, and climate resilience.
Instituto Equilíbrio believes the country can lead this transformation — proving that economic growth, food security, and environmental preservation are complementary pillars of a prosperous and resilient future.
Positioning Brazilian agribusiness as a global leader in applied climate solutions and innovative public policy.
