Conservation Techniques Help Smallholders Reduce Crop Losses

FAO partners with Indonesian government to expand efficient farming practices nationwide.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 9:56am

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A highly structured abstract painting in soft earth tones, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise botanical spirals, conveying the complex systems and natural cycles of regenerative farming.An abstract visual representation of the interconnected systems and natural cycles that underpin sustainable conservation agriculture practices.Lincoln Today

Conservation agriculture techniques are enabling smallholder farmers in Indonesia to adopt more efficient practices, which can reduce crop losses and offer higher returns. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is working with the Indonesian government to expand the use of these techniques across the country.

Why it matters

Improving the productivity and sustainability of smallholder farming is crucial for food security and rural development in Indonesia, where a large portion of the population relies on agriculture. Conservation agriculture can help smallholders become more resilient to extreme weather events like floods.

The details

Conservation agriculture focuses on minimal soil disturbance, permanent soil cover, and crop rotation. These techniques can help smallholders improve water management, reduce erosion, and enhance soil fertility. The FAO is providing training and technical support to help Indonesian farmers adopt these practices.

  • The FAO's partnership with the Indonesian government began in 2022.
  • The initiative aims to expand conservation agriculture nationwide by 2030.

The players

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

A United Nations agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security.

Indonesian Government

The national government of Indonesia, which is collaborating with the FAO to promote conservation agriculture among smallholder farmers.

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What’s next

The FAO and Indonesian government plan to monitor the adoption and impact of conservation agriculture practices over the next several years, with the goal of reaching more smallholder farmers across the country.

The takeaway

By partnering with the FAO, the Indonesian government is taking important steps to help smallholder farmers become more resilient and productive through the adoption of sustainable conservation agriculture techniques.