A new study shows that eco-friendly agriculture measures have helped Ontario farmers significantly reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.
The AGCare report, funded in part by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, found that almost two-thirds of farmers in the province are now using conservation tillage.
Reducing tillage conserves soil carbon, therefore reducing emissions of greenhouse gases.
The report says the practice has meant that about 600 fewer kilotonnes of carbon are being released, which has the same impact as taking 125,000 cars off the roads.
The “Caring for the Land” report also found farmers have been able to cut down their pesticide use by 52 per cent.
More than 70 per cent of Ontario farmers have voluntarily participated in the Environmental Farm Plan program, which includes assessments to increase environmental awareness in up to 23 different areas on farms.
