Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is not happy with the federal government’s approach to fertilizer emission reduction targets when the world needs more food.
By Andrew Joseph, Farms.com; Image by pixel1 from Pixabay
The Hon. Lisa Thompson, the Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), is disappointed in the federal government’s approach to imposing fertilizer emission reduction targets when the world is struggling with food security.
In a statement released on July 22, 2022, Thompson chastised the federal government.
“As our farmers work to feed Canada and the world, we need to work with them and support their ongoing efforts to grow and produce the food we need. The federal government needs to be true partners, rather than simply imposing targets that make it harder,” said Thompson.
During the recently held federal-provincial-territorial meeting in Saskatoon, Agriculture Ministers from across Canada discussed the federal government’s goal of reducing fertilizer emissions by 30 percent.
However, provinces were disappointed by the lack of flexibility and consultation regarding the federal target.
“Our farmers are dealing with significant and complex issues right now. I hope that the federal government will work with us and our farmers to support and recognize the great strides that they are making as responsible stewards,” she continued.
Thompson expressed appreciation that the federal government had worked with provincial ministers on other issues during the meeting and called on them to work with farmers and provinces to find an approach to fertilizer that will not negatively impact yields and food security.
Per the statement, OMAFRA reiterated that Canadian farmers are leaders in innovation and implementing new sustainable practices, including 4R Nutrient Stewardship, but they have repeatedly said that government needs to be a partner in these efforts.