Policy & Advocacy
Environmental Issues and Climate Change
Issue Overview – Greenhouse Gas Pollution Offset Program
Since its launch in 2021, the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Offset Program (GGPOP) has offered Canadian farmers a vital pathway to be recognized and financially rewarded for their environmental stewardship. By incentivizing practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance carbon sequestration, the program supports the agriculture sector in its transition to more sustainable, climate-resilient production methods. As the program continues to evolve, its success will depend on the inclusion of diverse offset protocols that reflect the full range of agriculture’s contributions to emissions reductions.
Priority areas for protocol development include:
- Enhanced soil organic carbon practices
- Afforestation of former agricultural land
- Aerobic composting
- Advanced nitrogen management
Issue Overview - Clean Fuel Regulations
The Clean Fuel Regulations (CFR) allow Canadian farmers to generate credits through two actions:
- Undertaking projects that reduce the lifecycle carbon intensity of fossil fuels (e.g., carbon capture and storage)
- Supplying customers with low carbon intensity fuels (biofuels)
These opportunities offer a new revenue stream for producers while positioning agriculture as a key player in Canada’s clean energy future. As implementation expands, ensuring accessibility, fairness, and recognition of agriculture’s unique role remains critical.
Quick Facts
- Farmers have kept their emissions steady for 20 years while almost doubling production, resulting in a notable decrease of GHG emission intensity.
- With the proper support and investment, Canadian agriculture can become a carbon sink through new technologies and techniques.
- As stewards of the land, farmers face the brunt of climate change and are heavily invested in the fight against climate change and mitigating its impacts.
CFA Policy Manual
For more information about this issue and all other key issues in Canadian agriculture, please refer to our current Policy Manual
