Key Takeaways:
- Premier Scott Moe and Bayer Crop Science announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at COP28.
- The MOU focuses on sustainable agriculture technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in farming.
- The partnership aims to enhance global food security and sustainability.
At the COP28 international climate summit, Premier Scott Moe and Bayer Crop Science unveiled a significant memorandum of understanding. This MOU, marking a collaborative effort between the province of Saskatchewan and the global life science company, is dedicated to exploring sustainable agriculture technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the agricultural sector.
Partnership Goals and Technologies
The collaboration will delve into digital, smart, and precision farming. “This announcement is fascinating for our ag-tech sectors and will help build and protect our farming communities,” stated Premier Scott Moe. He emphasized the potential of this partnership in leveraging Saskatchewan’s innovation capabilities to address global challenges in food security and sustainability.
Bayer’s Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture
Bayer, renowned for its expertise in healthcare and nutrition and as one of the world’s leading agricultural companies, brings a wealth of experience to this partnership. The collaboration will focus on shared objectives around agricultural sustainability, research, and innovation in the global food supply chain. Frank Terhorst, Head of Strategy and Sustainability at Bayer’s Crop Science division, highlighted the need for a transformation of agriculture to regenerative, emphasizing innovation and technology as pivotal tools in this endeavor.
Impact on Global Food Demand and Environmental Sustainability
As the global population and demand for food continue to rise, Bayer and Saskatchewan aim to discover innovations that boost Canada’s agricultural productivity while diminishing environmental impacts. This partnership also seeks to generate new avenues for economic growth. The MOU, effective immediately, is set for five years and represents Bayer’s first major agreement of this nature in Canada.
Saskatchewan’s History in Sustainable Agriculture
Saskatchewan has been at the forefront of sustainable agricultural practices, with its farmers sequestering approximately 15 million tonnes of carbon in 2021 through increased crop production and zero-till practices. The province boasts a significantly lower net carbon footprint in canola and wheat production than its global competitors.
COP28: A Platform for Global Climate Collaboration
COP28, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is an annual international climate summit from November 30 to December 12, 2023. The conference assembles leaders and stakeholders worldwide to address climate change issues. One hundred ninety-eight countries and the European Union participated in the convention, making it a crucial platform for discussions like the Saskatchewan and Bayer Crop Science partnership.
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