Corteva Agriscience, Wilmington, Del., on April 8 announced the creation of a new Carbon and Ecosystems Services portfolio to develop innovative products and services. The company said the portfolio is part of Corteva’s Digital Business Platform, and will provide farmers with simple and clear access to incentives and initiatives related to sustainable agriculture practices.
Under the program, Corteva Carbon Specialists will work with farmers and industry collaborators across the food and agriculture system to uncover carbon market opportunities, such as providing access to new markets for the sale of carbon credits, and allowing farmers to earn an estimated $5-$20 per acre per year by introducing cover crops and/or reducing tillage.
Corteva said the introductory launch of the Carbon Initiative will be targeted to rowcrop farmers in Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa this year, with the intent to expand to new geographies and crops for the 2022 growing season.
“We recognize the urgency of addressing climate change to ensure farmers will be able to produce a healthy food supply for generations to come,” said Anne Alonzo, Senior Vice President, External Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer. “There is increased understanding that sustainable climate change mitigation is not only critical for our environment, but also for ensuring the ongoing health of the farming sector globally. Corteva Agriscience is dedicated to providing our customers with best-in-class solutions to address environmental issues while strengthening their businesses.”
Additionally, Corteva reported that it has created the 2021 Climate Positive Leaders Program, which will recognize “early adopter” farmers and ranchers who have successfully implemented climate positive agriculture practices. The nomination-based program is open to farmers in the U.S., Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Germany, France, Australia, and Kenya. A panel of judges will review the applications, with winners and runners-up announced later this year. Nominations are open now until June 19, 2021.