Grain Growers of Canada release three recommendations to improve Canada’s fertilizer emission reduction targets
The Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) have published their submission to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s (AAFC) discussion document on the proposed fertilizer emission reduction target.
“Our sector knows nitrogen fertilizer is essential to the success of individual farm operations and, in turn, the Canadian economy,” says GGC Chair Andre Harpe from his farm in Alberta’s Peace Country. “With the threat of global food insecurity, we must develop an approach that aligns the imminent need for increased food production with the long-term goal of increasing on-farm sustainability.”
In March 2022, AAFC released its discussion document titled ‘Reducing emissions arising from the application of fertilizer in Canada’s agriculture sector as the next step in the government’s plans to reduce fertilizer emissions.
GGC has been working diligently to assess the impact on farmers and the grain industry. There is no one-size-fitsall approach to meeting this target, and many individual farm-level variables will impact what solutions work for each farmer. To reflect the varied Canadian landscape and to ensure we continue to increase our yield increases, GGC recommends:
• Targeting reductions in intensity relative to production, rather than an absolute reduction;
• Address data gaps to ensure the baseline reflects usage patterns and accurately measures emissions; and •Incorporating existing best management practices, like 4R Nutrient Stewardship, into the National Inventory Report (NIR). “We understand the need to hasten the adoption of technologies and practices that could reduce emissions,” adds Harpe. “Economic realities and on-farm agronomic necessities will dictate what is feasible. As part of Canadian grain farmers’ ongoing leadership, we continue to work towards developing practical onfarm policy that ensures sustainability and competitiveness.”
GGC continues to engage with the federal government, farm organizations and industry across Canada to align the federal government’s goals with the unique needs and opportunities of the sector. Please read (https:// www.ggcroadto2050.ca/wp-content/ uploads/2022/08/GGC-FertilizerEmissions-Reduction-DiscussionDocument-Response.pdf) to see GGC’s Discussion Document submission.