Nuevos programas de Embrapa buscan reducir la huella de carbono del maíz y el sorgo

Embrapa, the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, has launched two new programs aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of corn and sorghum production in Brazil. These programs, known as Maíz Bajo en Carbono (LCC) and Sorgo Bajo en Carbono (LCSg), focus on implementing science-based certification protocols to measure greenhouse gas emissions per ton of grain produced. The initiatives also promote sustainable practices and climate resilience, which could enhance the competitiveness of Brazilian corn and sorghum in markets demanding verifiable agricultural products.

The introduction of these programs marks a significant step towards promoting sustainable agriculture in Brazil. They provide practical solutions to address the impacts of climate change while creating new opportunities for Brazilian corn and sorghum to compete in markets with growing sustainability requirements. The programs aim to develop and validate certification protocols for the conceptual brands of Maíz Bajo en Carbono and Sorgo Bajo en Carbono, based on scientific evidence and aligned with international standards. The projects include parameters designed to differentiate and add value to corn and sorghum produced through sustainable practices and technologies.

At the core of these initiatives are technical and scientific criteria for measuring greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) intensity per ton of grain produced. "The calculation will be possible through the validation of technical guidelines for the certification protocol," says Arystides Resende Silva, Maíz and Sorgo researcher at Embrapa. "After the protocol is validated by Embrapa and its partners, certification can proceed. These certification steps will be voluntary, private, and carried out by third parties, following the MRV (Measurement, Reporting, and Verification) system," he adds.

Public announcements of the Maíz Bajo en Carbono and Sorgo Bajo en Carbono programs encourage the adoption of more resilient production systems and promote the transition towards a sustainable economy, notes Alexandre Ferreira da Silva, researcher at Embrapa. "We are facing a significant global challenge: climate change. In this context, Embrapa understands that decarbonizing agricultural and livestock production is one of the biggest challenges for Brazilian agriculture," Ferreira emphasizes.

Recognizing this necessity, Embrapa has been working on decarbonizing agricultural practices. The new programs represent a strategic approach to reduce the carbon footprint of corn and sorghum production, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. By implementing science-based certification protocols, Embrapa aims to differentiate products that are produced using sustainable practices, thereby enhancing their market appeal and supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy.

These initiatives also emphasize the importance of climate resilience in agricultural production. By promoting sustainable practices, the programs help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions, ensuring food security and long-term productivity. The voluntary certification process, carried out by third parties, adds credibility to the products and provides consumers with clear information about the sustainability of the products they purchase.

In conclusion, the Maíz Bajo en Carbono and Sorgo Bajo en Carbono programs represent a groundbreaking effort by Embrapa to reduce the carbon footprint of Brazilian corn and sorghum production. By leveraging science-based certification protocols and promoting sustainable practices, these initiatives not only address the challenges posed by climate change but also create new opportunities for Brazilian agriculture to compete in global markets. The programs underscore Embrapa's commitment to innovation and its role as a leader in sustainable agriculture in Brazil.