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Study says modern farming practices are good for the environment

Jul 9, 2025 | 3:55 PM

New research released by the Global Institue for Food Security (GIFS) at the University of Saskatchewan confirms what farmers in this province have long known: sustainable production practices are paying off.

According to the comparative carbon footprint study released July 7, 2025, Saskatchewan and Western Canadian farmers produce barley with the lowest carbon intensity among global regions studied. The findings reinforce the success of modern farming systems employed by local growers.

The Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission (SaskBarley) welcomed the new research. Executive Director Jill McDonald said the study validates the leadership of Saskatchewan barley producers in both productivity and environmental stewardship.

“Our farmers are on the front lines of climate-smart agriculture. The practices they’ve adopted like reduced tillage, advanced crop rotations and precision nutrient management are helping drive real, measurable change,” McDonald said.

Using carbon life cycle analysis following globally recognized standards (ISO 14044 and ISO 14067), the findings are consistent with previous research on crops like wheat, canola, peas, and lentils. The report found that whether accounting for soil carbon sequestration or not, Saskatchewan’s carbon footprint for barley production was the lowest among studied regions, including Australia and France.

“This kind of third-party research from GIFS strengthens our voice in international markets,” McDonald said. “This report can be used by our exporters, brewers and food processors to demonstrate the low-impact footprint of Canadian barley.”

SaskBarley emphasized evidence-based research is vital to informing effective policy and trade decisions. Ensuring that sustainability frameworks accurately reflect practical, on-the-ground outcomes enhances both credibility and alignment across the sector.

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com