While Canada's livestock sector has been using a Code of Practice for some time, its something that has been absent from the grain industry.
Cereals Canada President Cam Dahl believes it's time for that to change.
"The Codes of Practice that have been developed by the animal care councils, really are voluntary," he said. "I know some of the sectors have developed additional programs on top of the codes. If there's a commercial reason, if there's willing buyers or willing sellers on both sides and there's a commercial incentive to go beyond something that's voluntary. This could provide the basis for that."
Dahl notes the Grains Round Table recently endorsed exploring the development of a code through the Canadian Round Table For Sustainable Crops.
"Canadian farmers, exporters, and processors will have a concrete tool to demonstrate sustainability to our customers," he added. "We will be able to show, with the backing of science, what we are already doing to preserve our land, air, and water. This is a tool to help increase the competitiveness of Canadian agriculture and not a threat to modern farming practices. Further, the development of a Code of Practice will be a valuable tool in communicating beneficial management practices to farmers."
Source : Steinbachonline