Coconut farmers urged to retain husks for soil health, cost savings

Coconut farmers in Mindanao are being encouraged to rethink their approach to agricultural waste as agroecology gains traction across the region. In farming communities across Makilala in Cotabato, Magsaysay in Davao del Sur, and Davao Occidental, many producers continue selling coconut husks to coir buyers for as little as P0.25 per unit, viewing the modest income as a net gain despite the hidden costs to their land.

Under traditional linear economy models, farmers extract maximum value from immediate sales while overlooking long-term soil degradation. Agroecologists argue this approach squanders an opportunity to operationalize circular economy principles at the field level through recycling, efficiency, crop diversity, and natural synergy that regenerates soil health over time.

Retaining coconut husks on farm property offers multiple benefits. The organic material enriches soil composition, reduces nutrient depletion common in intensive coconut production, and diminishes reliance on purchased chemical inputs. Over successive seasons, this regenerative practice can significantly lower production costs while improving yields and land sustainability.

The transition from extractive to regenerative practices requires farmer education and coordination. Agricultural extension services in these regions are working to demonstrate the financial and environmental advantages of on-farm composting and soil amendment using locally available coconut byproducts.