As COP30 unfolds in Belém, Brazil is at the center of global conversations about the nexus between climate, biodiversity, and sustainable production. While the Amazon often dominates headlines, another natural treasure—Brazil’s coral reefs—quietly plays a critical role in coastal protection, fisheries, and tourism. Yet, these fragile ecosystems are increasingly under pressure from land-based nutrient pollution linked to agriculture in the world largest sugarcane producer.
Modeling the Path to Cleaner Waters in Brazil’s Costa dos Corais
In a pioneering effort for bio-fertilizer producer Agrion, a study was developed to assess how sustainable fertilizer strategies can reduce nutrient runoff from agricultural practices and protect coral ecosystems in Brazil’s Costa dos Corais Marine Protected Area (MPA). This study[1] was led by AXA Climate and commissioned by the Catalytic Finance Foundation for the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR), managed by the UN Capital Development Fund[2], specifically to support Agrion’s sustainability vision and expansion strategy in this environmentally sensitive region.
The work combines cutting-edge agronomic and hydrological modeling with environmental data to trace how farming practices on land can ripple through entire ecosystems—right down to the ocean.
A Science-Based Blueprint for Action
Beyond Costa dos Corais, this work demonstrates how data-driven modeling can guide nature-positive transitions in agri-food systems. By simulating realistic climate scenarios, exploring management options, and visualizing pollution pathways, the approach empowers stakeholders—from farmers to policymakers—to act with confidence when supporting sustainable farming practices.
The insights generated in this study can inform:
1/ Watershed-level pollution reduction planning
2/ Fertilizer policy and ESG reporting for sugar and ethanol companies
3/ Blue finance mechanisms linking upstream practices to coastal resilience outcomes
4/ Corporate biodiversity commitments aligned with COP30 and the Global Biodiversity Framework
Ultimately, the goal is not just to model impacts—but to accelerate deployment of solutions that work for both people and the planet.
Brazil’s agricultural sector stands at a crossroads: it feeds hundreds of millions while stewarding some of the planet’s richest ecosystems. Initiatives like Agrion’s biofertilizers show how innovation and sustainability can be combined. With the right science, partnerships, and vision, the country can pioneer a new paradigm where regenerative agriculture protects not only yields—but also coral reefs, rivers, and coastal livelihoods.
[1] All factual information and claims in this study have been extracted directly from the joint AXA Climate/Catalytic Finance Foundation study, unless otherwise indicated by source citation.
[2] GFCR has no connection or affiliation with the Global Fund for Coral Reefs managed by Pegasus Capital Advisors, L.P.
