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By Tracy Myers, Eastern Valley Regional Communication Coordinator
We are all aware of the old adage “less is more”. This certainly holds true when it comes to fertilizer emissions and its effect on climate. There has been a concern that emissions from fertilizer have been causing environmental impacts. As a result, in December of 2020, the Federal government of Canada announced a 30% threshold for fertilizer emissions (below the 2020 limit), with the goal of 2030 being an end target. Two years have gone by, and farmers are wondering where they fit into this plan.
Changes in field crop area between 2001-2021 (Government of Canada website)
It is important to note that the production of major field crops has increased by approximately 34% due to crop expansion and many new innovative technologies. As well, since 2005, production of canola, Canada’s most nutrient diverse crop, has increased by 80%. As a result of these two cropping practices, the use of fertilizer has also increased, in order to sustain the yields of these crops.
Farmers, who are often considered the best stewards of the land, are well aware of a variety of options that will aid in the reduction of N2O emissions. Some of these options include split fertility applications, utilizing enhanced efficiency fertilizers as well as using variable rate fertilizer.
Unfortunately, if Nitrogen fertilizer use is decreased, it could potentially result in decreased yields, which also coincides with less profitability. The fertilizer industry has a major role to play in achieving zero emissions by 2050, yet the industry, farmers and government must all play integral roles in this partnership.
At the present time the reduction target is voluntary. All involved partners must meet specific mandates in order to move forward in achieving the reduction point. The 4R Climate Smart Protocol allows for each farm enterprise to individually measure and report reductions in emissions. This protocol is a collaboration with the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Plan that is also conducted at the individual farm level. Farm-specific and sustainable goals are developed that will help in the reduction of Greenhouse gases and are developed with the help of Certified Crop Advisors. It is important to note that this protocol has the ability to create a positive market opportunity for farmers, especially if combined with a carbon price increase.
Farmers have expressed concerns that, although the goal of a 30% reduction by the year 2030 may be deemed necessary, it may also be somewhat lofty, especially when the agricultural industry is asked to increase production of food crops in order to combat potential global food insecurity.
Amidst these concerns, there is still much optimism that the reduction goal can be achieved. Collaboration, communication, and implementation will be the key to success.