A new report from Fertilizer Canada and the Canola Council of Canada (CCC) shows how Canada can continue to increase crop yields while significantly reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from fertilizer application using available tools and technology, a Sept. 7 news release said.
The release noted a 14 per cent reduction in GHG emissions by 2030 can be achieved without jeopardizing food security through the adoption of aggressive, but attainable levels of 4R best management practices.
“We support the federal government’s strong push to reduce Canada’s GHG emissions, but we cannot sacrifice food productivity,” Karen Proud, president and CEO of Fertilizer Canada, said in the release. “The approach to 2030 must be realistic, balance agricultural emission reductions with food production, and remain voluntary.”
The report looked at three scenarios for major Canadian cropping systems across Canada and built a path forward to 2030 based on broader implementation of 4R practices. The study looked at the impact of 4R BMPs on GHG emissions and the economic impact to growers.