By Scout Nelson
A director from the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) recently participated in COP29, the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Held in Baku, Azerbaijan, the event brought together global leaders to address climate change.
The Minnesota representative engaged in panel discussions and roundtable talks about agriculture’s impact on climate change and the sustainable practices adopted by U.S. farmers. “Our goal is to protect the land for future generations,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of soil health and carbon sequestration in combating climate challenges.
The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) played a key role in promoting agricultural sustainability in the western hemisphere. “Not everyone sees agriculture the same way,” he noted, highlighting varying global perspectives on farming practices.
The event also provided opportunities to connect with farmers and agricultural leaders worldwide. Discussions underscored the importance of small-scale farms, which dominate many countries and play a significant role in employment and food security. “Modernizing farms to U.S. standards isn’t always practical and could impact livelihoods,” he observed.
Partnering with leaders from the United States, the Minnesota representative advocated for the agricultural community to have a stronger voice at such events. While agriculture was a smaller focus at COP29, it is expected to take center stage at COP30 in Brazil, where discussions will likely emphasize farming’s role in climate solutions.
These engagements highlight Minnesota’s leadership in advocating for sustainable practices and fostering collaboration among global agricultural communities to address climate challenges effectively.
Photo Credit:minnesota-soybean-council
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