In a groundbreaking analysis, the National Farmers Union (NFU) has unveiled the most detailed assessment yet of agricultural greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within Ontario. The report was released at the end of 2023.
Leveraging provincial data from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), the report, "Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Ontario: A Comprehensive Assessment," breaks down emissions and soil-carbon changes across 42 distinct categories.
This meticulous approach offers an unprecedented look at the specific sources contributing to the province's agricultural emissions footprint.
The findings are a call to action: Ontario's agricultural sector, along with the production of its inputs, has seen GHG emissions escalate from 12.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) in 1990 to 13.8 million tonnes in 2021.
This rise is attributed mainly to a significant 75% increase in fossil-fuel usage on farms since 1990. Notably, cattle, other livestock, and nitrogen fertilizer usage also stand out as substantial contributors to the sector's overall GHG emissions.
Further compounding the issue, the report highlights a worrying trend of carbon loss from agricultural soils—a problem that has not only persisted since 1990 but has accelerated in recent years.
The implications for soil health and long-term agricultural sustainability in Ontario are profound. Stuart Oke, a local farmer and past chair of the NFU’s Climate Committee, emphasizes the personal and collective stakes involved.
Facing the escalating challenges of climate change, Oke calls for "common sense solutions" to reduce emissions without compromising the financial viability of farms. He advocates for government support in fostering a resilient, sustainable agricultural system for the future.
This comprehensive report doesn't just outline the problem; it serves as a clarion call for informed action. For farmers and policymakers alike, understanding the specifics of emissions is the first step toward implementing necessary on-farm changes.
The NFU's analysis seeks to bridge the gap between current practices and a sustainable future, offering clear, detailed insights to guide the transition to lower emissions in Ontario's agricultural sector. Download a complete copy of the report.