American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall met with European Union officials to share agriculture’s sustainability story. Chad Smith tells us Duvall stressed the importance of science-based, market driven programs.

Smith: The U.S. Sustainability Alliance was formed to share the stories and values of U.S. farmers, fisherman, and foresters with European audiences. Zippy Duvall, American Farm Bureau Federation President, talked with EU officials about the sustainable practices and conservation programs in U.S. agriculture.

Duvall: We met with them because agriculture in the United States has a great story to tell about the advancements in sustainability. American agriculture represents less than 10 percent of all the greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, which is much lower than the global average. Representatives from several European countries were here to learn more about the U.S. government's role in advancing sustainability.

Smith: He was eager to impress upon the EU visitors the importance of treating farmers as partners instead of establishing restrictive mandates.

Duvall: More than 300 million acres in the United States are voluntarily dedicated to climate-smart practices like cover crops, no till, or low till, and those are some of the methods that we use. That success is occurring because of our voluntary, incentive-based programs. It's critical to recognize regional differences in agriculture and not take a one-size-fits-all approach.

Smith: Duvall says farmers must continue engaging with the international community.

Duvall: It's important to share this story because we need global science-based standards. We've already seen how mandates from other countries can impact U.S. agriculture. Additionally, as we pursue new trade opportunities, we want to make sure that the EU nations understand just how much progress American farmers and ranchers have made on sustainability efforts.

Smith: For more information on Farm Bureau’s efforts to promote agriculture, go to fb.org. Chad Smith, Washington.

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