Growing Climate Solutions: What It Means for Farmers

Between effects of climate change, costs of inputs and production, and market hits, it is difficult for farmers to make gains outside of government subsidies. But what if farmers could help to mitigate climate change, increase the resiliency of the land, and put money in their pockets while doing so?

In June 2020, a climate related bill was proposed...with strong bipartisan support in both the House and Senate. The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a USDA program to encourage farmers, ranchers, and foresters to become an active part of the carbon market. It would encourage practices that create healthier soil, allowing more carbon to be captured in the ground, and paying out money from the carbon market to the farmer.

In this episode we speak with Jenny Hopkinson, Senior Government Relations Representative for the National Farmer's Union. Jenny tells us about the variety of solutions that farmers can lead the way on, and why it is important for their input to help shape this legislation.

There are different opinions on the concept of carbon markets, but perhaps this legislation can be seen as one small element within a holistic approach needed to address climate, farmer's needs, and improving our food system...all which need bipartisan support.

More info on the National Farmer's Unions: https://www.nfu.org. @nationalfarmersunion

#farmers #climate # carbonmarket #ranchers #forester #GrowingClimateSolutionsAct #climateaction