Showcasing farmers growing commitment to sustainability will be a major goal for the National Corn Growers Association in 2021. Several major initiatives by NCGA, as well as collaborative efforts with partners, will bear fruit in the new year.
“NCGA made a pioneering leap into the sustainability arena with the launch of the Soil Health Partnership. Since then, we have not let up. We have been working to take the next big steps showcasing our dedication to continuous improvement,” said Andy Jobman, Chair of NCGA’s Stewardship Action Team STAT. “Last year’s release of our U.S. Corn Commitment Statement opened the door for a very active 2021, starting with our upcoming Corn Sustainability Report and Environmental Sustainability Goals.”
The report will quantify accomplishments to date on the environment and climate change and chart a course that will create a more environmentally and economically sustainable world for future generations.
NCGA is working with the University of Illinois on a trendline analysis that will provide crucial information on environmental sustainability goals, Jobman notes. It focuses on the current status of the corn industry in the sustainability space. It will offer an important perspective on where corn farmers, industry stakeholders, and consumers are positioned on sustainability. The analysis will potentially target an assessment of greenhouse gas, soil loss/soil health initiatives, land use and energy use.
Climate change will also be front and center in 2021. The profile and importance of addressing climate change continue to grow exponentially. NCGA’s mission is to assure the best available information and sources are used in decision making. A key priority will be positioning corn farmers as a significant solution to reducing greenhouse gas.
NCGA will also continue its efforts to be a key player in the development and assessment of Carbon Markets. The organization is working to making it easier for producers to participate in climate-smart practices, navigate carbon markets, and earn extra income through carbon sequestration.
