Nitrous oxide (N2O) may be much less abundant in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide (CO2), but it is 300 times more potent. University of Illinois and University of Minnesota have documented an overlooked but crucial timeframe for nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in U.S. Midwest agricultural systems: the non-growing season. “Nitrous oxide emissions from agricultural soils […] Read more
Tag Archives Environment — page 11
Soil freeze and thaw spike nitrous oxide emissions
Science Notes: Computer simulation aims to determine hotspots
Ambitious plan aims to add 300 biodigesters
DFO vice-chair hopes to see Danish model for renewable natural gas adopted across Canada on dairy farms
A co-operative-style company founded by Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) vice-chair Nick Thurler has taken its first step toward a goal of gaining access to 80 per cent of the country’s dairy manure for conversion into renewable natural gas (RNG). Thurler officially launched GET Corp,– and the sustainable agriculture program that forms its centrepiece, through […] Read more
Fertilizer emissions: it’s in the details
Technical discussion now begin on proposed emissions reductions plans for agriculture in Canada
Glacier FarmMedia – The federal Liberal government’s online consultation on its proposed 30 per cent reduction of nitrous oxide emissions closed Aug. 31 but the issue will continue to be examined during technical discussions beginning this month. The issue became politicized through the summer as Conservative MPs referred to it as an impending fertilizer ban […] Read more
One-third of China’s land protected under ecological ‘red line’ scheme
Authorities crack down on farm encroachment
Shanghai | Reuters — Nearly a third of China’s land is now off-limits to development under a scheme known as the “ecological protection red line,” a senior official said at a news briefing on Monday, bringing the country in accord with global biodiversity targets. China first proposed its “red line” scheme in 2011 to put […] Read more
University of Guelph scientist slams fertilizer emissions plan
Financial incentives and more cost-effective testing for researchers and farmers is needed, he says
Glacier FarmMedia – A scientist from the University of Guelph says the federal government is rushing its plan to cut greenhouse gas emissions from nitrogen fertilizer. Other scientists are concerned the plan could contribute to the urban/rural divide where city dwellers view farmers as bad guys who are trying to destroy the planet. Why it […] Read more
What will King Charles’s reign mean for climate action?
Some projects may be handed to other family members
London | Thomson Reuters Foundation — As Britain’s King Charles III begins his reign after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, environmental campaigners will be watching closely to see if he continues to advocate for climate action and is able to help drive change as monarch. In his first speech to the nation […] Read more
Opinion: Fertilizer reductions are possible
Retired prof says 2030 target is achievable with incentives for farmers
The 4R principles promoted by Fertilizer Canada are increasingly accepted and practiced by farmers across Canada. It makes sense to apply nutrients from the right source, at the right time, in the right place and at the right rate. However, recent Fertilizer Canada lobbying has morphed the fourth principle from right rates to holding the […] Read more
Editorial: Let’s be careful not to greenwash regenerative
Food companies like to use descriptors such as “non-GMO”, “gluten-free”, “humane certified” and numerous others to try and differentiate their products in the marketplace. These often follow consumer trends, usually initiated by lobbyists for environmental, animal welfare, nutrition and health groups. They can also be considered greenwashing when they are used incorrectly, or fraudulently. The […] Read more
Regenerative agriculture reaches a crossroads
The jury is still out on whether the production philosophy will become a niche brand or a mainstream practice
Glacier FarmMedia – In early August, Prince Charles gave his stamp of approval to regenerative agriculture. While addressing an international soil conference held in Glasgow, the Prince of Wales said regenerative farming is the future of food production. “We have to be proactive in encouraging regenerative agriculture, with a diversity of plants and of grazing […] Read more
Opinion: Livestock, climate and a context embargo
Industry needs to lead the development of a balanced vision for the future
“We are living under a context embargo.” I recently heard that statement and thought it was a good way to summarize the tendency to focus on an issue at the expense of understanding the bigger picture. Unfortunately, those who try to bring attention to the bigger picture are often vilified. If you need proof of […] Read more
Cyber-Savvy Farmer
