Canada must #Choose4R.
We don’t have to choose between the environment and feeding the world. Farmers have chosen 4R Nutrient Stewardship, a science-based approach that reduces environmental impacts while supporting Canadian farmers and families.
Canadian Farmer’s play a leading role in Canadian food production
Canada must choose 4R Nutrient Stewardship to meet Canada’s emission reduction targets
In December 2020, the federal government set a voluntary national fertilizer emissions reduction target of 30 per cent below 2020 levels by 2030. While agriculture must do its part in limiting the impacts of climate change, emission reduction strategies must balance the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from fertilizer application against farm profitability, economic growth and global food security.
Canadian farmers are already among the most sustainable growers in the world, they have less room to lower fertilizer emissions without compromising food production than those in other countries. As there are only eight growing seasons until 2030. To meet its climate goals, Canada must follow the leadership of Canadian farmers and go all-in on 4R Nutrient Stewardship. Choosing 4R will reduce environmental impacts while supporting Canadian farmers and families.
76,000 Jobs
Canada’s fertilizer industry also supports over 76,000 jobs directly and indirectly throughout the supply chain
$13 Billion
Canada’s fertilizer industry contributes nearly $13 billion to Canada’s GDP.
USD $5.6 Billion
In 2019 Canada exported USD $5.6 billion in fertilizer.
15 Years
Canadian farmers have used the 4Rs to reduce fertilizer emissions for the last 15 years.
78%
As a result, Canada’s nitrogen use-efficiency exceeds the worlds average, currently sitting at 78%.
6 Million
As of 2021 there are over 6 million validated acres under 4R management in Canada.
Economic Report(s)
The Economics of 4R BMP Implementation and Emissions Reductions from Fertilizer
Fertilizer Agri-Economics Report Brief
Fertilizer Agri-Economics Report Executive Summary
Implications of a Total Emissions Reduction Target on Fertilizer – Full Report
News Release(s)
Canada Can Reduce GHG Emissions from Fertilizer Use Without Jeopardizing Food Security, New Report Says
New Report Warns of Potential for $48 Billion Loss in Farm Income if Fertilizer Reductions are Required of Growers
Resource(s)
Environment 101
Industry 101
Safety 101
Choosing 4R to Meet the National Emissions Reduction Target for Fertilizer: Two Pager
Emissions Reduction Initiative Report
Fertilizer Canada’s Response to AAFC’s Discussion Paper
Fertilizer Agri-Economics Report FAQ
Nitrogen 101
Transport 101
Potash 101
Products 101
Implications of a Total Emissions Reduction Target on Fertilizer: MNP Report
4R NUTRIENT STEWARDSHIP: THE RIGHT SOLUTION FOR CANADIAN FARMERS – Infographic
Media Appearance(s)
Canadian farmers are world leaders in food production and environmental sustainability
Will the federal government cap synthetic fertilizer use?
Government Submission(s)
Fertilizer Canada’s Response to AAFC’s Discussion Paper
AAFC Memorandum of Cooperation Request
Canadian farmers are growing more to increase food security at home and help feed the world
2 Billion People
The world’s population is estimated to grow by approximately 2 billion people by 2050.
50% Growth
Global agriculture production will need to increase by 50 per cent to feed all these people.
Canadian farmers rely on nitrogen-based fertilizers to increase the amount of food they grow to keep up with global demand. This helps put food on the tables of Canadians and feed a growing global population. It also supports Canada reaching its target of $75 billion in agri-food exports by 2025.
By choosing 4R Nutrient Stewardship Canadian farmers have become some of the most sustainable growers in the world
Right Source
Matches fertilizer type to crop needs.
Right Rate
Matches amount of fertilizer to crop needs.
Right Time
Matches nutrients available when crops need them.
Right Place
Keeps nutrients where crops can use them.
For the last decade and a half, Canadian farmers have worked hard to reduce emissions from fertilizer by adopting 4R Nutrient Stewardship. The 4R approach was developed in partnership with leading scientists, farm organizations and provincial governments to reduce agriculture’s environmental impact without compromising farmers’ competitiveness.
