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17May
2023

New report recognizes Canada as a leader in efficient fertilizer use

The Global Institute for Food Security was pleased to provide testimony to inform a new report from the House of Commons Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food.

The document — Feeding the World: Strengthening Canada’s Capacity to Respond to Global Food Security — recognizes Canadian agricultural producers as global leaders in the efficient use of fertilizers.

It makes 22 policy recommendations and urges the federal government to not proceed with any mandatory fertilizer emissions reduction.

A 2020 federal government plan set a voluntary national emission reduction target of 30-per-cent below 2020 levels.

“Last fall, I was honoured to be one of many representatives of agri-food organizations based in Western Canada that provided testimony to MP Kody Blois and the other members of the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food,” said GIFS CEO Steven Webb.

“I am encouraged to see much of our testimony documented in the report and reflected in the recommendations on important topics, including fertilizer use. Through the widespread adoption of no till farming practices, nutrient stewardship, herbicide-tolerant canola and other innovations, Western Canadian growers produce some of the most sustainable grains and oilseeds in the world, which is recognized in these recommendations.

“I am hopeful the report will promote meaningful dialogue and transparent, science-based policies that support sustainable agricultural production and Canadian competitiveness while advancing science and innovation across this country.”

Report highlights

 The 22 points in the House of Commons Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food report include recommendations for the Government of Canada to do the following:

• “Expedite the publication of its clarified guidelines for the regulation of products of plant breeding innovation, while considering the concerns of the organic sector.” (Recommendation 4)

Note: In early May, after the publication of this report, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency released new guidance addressing Seed Regulations. That update clarifies the definition of plants with novel traits and recognizes the safety of gene-editing technologies and their use in plant breeding.

• “Recognize that Canadian agricultural producers are leading the world in the efficient use of fertilizers and that it not proceed with any mandatory fertilizer emissions reduction policy that would jeopardize farmers’ yields, but instead encourage them to implement best nutrient management practices such as the 4R Program.” (Recommendation 10)

• “Encourage investments in the rail system to promote the movement of goods at a lower cost and, more significantly, with a smaller carbon footprint.” (Recommendation 18)

The full report, Feeding the World: Strengthening Canada’s Capacity to Respond to Global Food Security, can be viewed below.

• MORE: Feeding the World: Strengthening Canada’s Capacity to Respond to Global Food Security (PDF)