
Study says modern farming practices are good for the environment
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.