COP27 – Politics and…more politics

Agriculture and food production was a top priority at the recent COP27 conference held in Egypt. It appears that agriculture is taking a large global hit as a sector of focus.

 
The plan is:

- Reduce agricultural greenhouse emissions
- Assist farmers globally in working the land
- Deal with the challenges of climate change

 
The price tag - $8 billion. Wow, that is a lot of money! I wonder…is it enough? who gets what? will our government support our farmers or sacrifice established farming practices?

 
Producers know there is a closely held relationship between them, the land and climate. At the end of the day the grocery store shelf depends on both rain and stewardship. Farmers are on the front lines and are looking for ways to adapt. Trillions of dollars tackled COVID-19, I’m not sure that $8 billion will do the job. The conference’s goal was very ambitious in reducing global emissions; however, no one really knows what the cost is.

 
I believe that both Agriculture and Energy transition is going to be extremely expensive. To me, that is scary. Funding this movement will change the world of finance…not sure how, but it will. I know one thing for sure; Mr. & Mrs. Citizen will end up with the tab.

Climate change is a major risk and unknown for all businesses and it is only natural for them to protect their bottom line. All levels of government need to provide incentives and cost sharing programs which can enhance the changes needed for climate friendly practices.

I’m cautiously optimistic that provincial and federal governments will properly compensate Canadian producers…maybe?

Your thoughts are always appreciated

Take care

Fred Mertz

Fred@thevoiceofagriculture.ca