MELFORT, Sask. – The Alberta Wheat and Barley Commissions said Ottawa’s target of reducing fertilizer emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 has created confusion and frustration because of a lack of clarity on what will be measured and how.
The commissions said farmers are struggling to understand how the target can be met within seven growing seasons without impacting yields, the viability of farming into the future, or Canada’s ability to retain a competitive position in meeting domestic and global food security needs.
Alberta Wheat Commission chair Greg Sears said farmers were not consulted in setting what seems to be an arbitrary and unachievable target.
“In order to make any progress toward this ambitious goal it will clearly require a collaborative approach, one that farmers are willing to take,” Sears said. “Setting a target in advance of discussing and defining potential, viable pathways has fueled confusion and frustration in the sector.”
The commissions have made a series of recommendations, including that any target must be based on emission intensity over absolute emission reductions to mitigate negative impacts on farmers’ growth and the economy, the target must remain voluntary, and there must be better communication with farmers.
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