Comments requests on USDA Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Partnership Program

​The USDA is requesting information (comments) from the public on a Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry (CSAF) Partnership Program. The term “climate-smart commodity” is used to refer to an agricultural commodity that is produced using farming practices that reduce GHG emissions or sequester carbon. USDA will consider comments received on or before 11:59 p.m. (ET) on November 1, 2021. Here’s the link to comment: is https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/09/30/2021-21368/climate-smart-agriculture-and-forestry-partnership-program?utm_source=federalregister.gov&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list

Despite the opportunity for new or expanded markets for climate-smart commodities there are barriers that have prevented these markets from reaching scale:

• The lack of standard definitions of climate-smart commodities;
• Lack of clear standards for measurement of climate benefits of CSAF practices;
• Potential for double-counting benefits;
• High transaction costs;
• Limited ability for small producer participation;
• Lack of efficient supply chain traceability; and
• High risk of market entry.

USDA is exploring options to reduce and remove barriers and is requesting comments on options for promoting CSAF, including systems for quantification, options, and criteria for proposal evaluation, use of information collected, potential protocols, and options for review and verification. Additionally, we are requesting comments on how U.S. Government action might encourage CSAF practices by leveraging private-sector demand and providing new income streams for farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners.