YOUR TEXAS AGRICULTURE MINUTE

EPA report shows ag continues advancements in sustainability

By Gary Joiner
Publisher

New estimates from the Environmental Protection Agency on man-made greenhouse gas emissions point to agriculture’s continuing advancements in sustainability.

U.S. agriculture once again represents just 10% of total U.S. emissions when compared to other economic sectors. While overall U.S. greenhouse gas emissions increased from 2020 to 2021 by 5.2%, agricultural emissions dropped 0.2% during that timeframe.

The decrease in agricultural emissions continues an impressive pattern of success for U.S. farmers and ranchers. Agricultural emissions dropped 2.7% between 2019 and 2020 and declined 2.2% between 2018 and 2019.

For livestock categories, emissions from beef cattle sit at 2.19% of total U.S. emissions. This is a 1% decline from 2020.

The bottom line is Texas farmers and ranchers and all of U.S agriculture are producing more while using fewer resources and emitting fewer greenhouse gases.

Innovation and advancements in technology are allowing for improved production.

Voluntary, market- and incentive-based conservation practices are helping farmers and ranchers reduce their environmental footprint.

It’s a win-win.

Agriculture is a partner in reducing greenhouse gas emissions while producing the food, fiber and renewable fuel U.S. families, and the world, rely on.

The preceding commentary is brought to you by Texas Farm Bureau, the “Voice of Texas Agriculture.” Called “Your Texas Agriculture Minute,” TFB will issue thought-provoking editorials each week—via print and audio—to spark understanding of agriculture in the Lone Star State and its impact on each and every Texan.

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