National Geographic and PepsiCo unite on food future

National Geographic Society and PepsiCo are joining forces to raise awareness about regenerative agriculture and its role in building a sustainable food system. Through the Food for Tomorrow program, the partnership will combine science, storytelling, and education to highlight solutions that balance food production with environmental protection.

The initiative will support National Geographic Explorer-led projects and research, using imagery, narratives, and data visualization to show how farming practices that restore soil and ecosystems can strengthen the global food system.

Food system under pressure

By 2050, the world’s population is projected to reach 10 billion. UNESCO reports indicate that close to 90 percent of the planet’s soil could be degraded by that time if current practices continue. Regenerative agriculture, which restores rather than depletes natural resources, is seen as a pathway to address soil degradation, habitat loss, and the pressures of feeding a growing population.

Jill Tiefenthaler, CEO, National Geographic Society: "Our future will be shaped by how we grow our food today—and we’re reimagining what’s possible when that system nourishes both people and the planet. In collaboration with PepsiCo, we’re investing in bold solutions and the farmers, scientists, and storytellers leading this essential work. We’re proud to fuel a global movement, rooted in science and hope, to help build a thriving future for generations to come."

PepsiCo’s global farming goals

The global food sector, working alongside farmers, will play a central role in applying research and technology to regenerative agriculture. PepsiCo has already set a target to expand the adoption of regenerative, restorative, or protective practices across 10 million acres by 2030.

Ramon Laguarta, Chairman and CEO, PepsiCo: "Climate change is putting unprecedented pressure on the global food system, and farmers feel it every day. As a company rooted in agriculture, we know just how fragile — and vital — that system is. But there are solutions that can help make businesses and farmers more resilient. Food for Tomorrow combines PepsiCo’s deep food system expertise with National Geographic’s power to advance science and inspire action. Together, we’re aiming to support farmers, protect the planet, and help build a stronger, more resilient future for all."

Films and field projects

To illustrate the program’s impact, PepsiCo and National Geographic CreativeWorks have produced three short films that capture farmers adopting regenerative practices. These stories highlight the role of collaboration and science in shaping more resilient farming systems.

The program will also fund five National Geographic Explorers documenting sustainable farming practices, and award up to five scientific grants under the Building Resilience in Agriculture project. The grants, open until September 30, 2025, will support proposals that apply science to expand regenerative practices at scale.

Mapping the future of farming

In addition, the initiative will develop a global data visualization mapping tool, planned for launch in 2026 on the National Geographic Society website. The resource will showcase how regenerative agriculture enhances food system resilience, serving farmers, scientists, and the public.

www.pepsico.com

www.nationalgeographic.com

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