The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a $300 million investment aimed at advancing techniques to reduce carbon emissions in farming and forestry. This funding is part of a larger $20 billion allocation for climate-smart agriculture included in the climate and social policy law passed by Democrats in Congress and signed by President Joe Biden last year.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced funds for standards and reporting networks to improve farmers and foresters' climate-friendly practices. The funds are crucial to President Biden's climate agenda, aiming for a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030.
To achieve this goal, Vilsack stressed the importance of scientific research and innovation. Accurate measurements and reliable data on the impact and effectiveness of climate practices are essential. Continuous monitoring and reporting of these practices will enable the identification of successful approaches while discarding ineffective ones.
The US Environmental Protection Agency reports agriculture contributed 10% to greenhouse gas emissions in 2021. The USDA plans to establish a soil carbon monitoring and research network, improve data management infrastructure, and enhance measurement tools for assessing greenhouse gas outcomes.
Although the agriculture sector already collects data and provides estimates on carbon emissions and sequestration, the current approach is fragmented, resulting in incomplete or outdated information. The introduction of national networks will facilitate the sharing of high-quality data, ensuring better coordination and accumulation of information from diverse sources, beyond just on-ground observations.
More precise and comprehensive data can also bolster the case for continued funding of agriculture programs dedicated to climate solutions when lawmakers draft a new farm bill later this year.
The administration plans to unveil a comprehensive strategy to measure and monitor greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture and forestry, emphasizing its commitment to fight climate change in these vital sectors.
Photo Credit: USDA
Categories: South Dakota, Government & Policy