Banding together with Bunge to create sustainable ag network
Published: May 30, 2023
Nutrien has announced an alliance with Bunge to support U.S. farmers in implementing sustainable farming practices that will lower their carbon footprint. This strategic alliance aims to expand sustainable agriculture across shared supply chains in North America.
“Sustainable agriculture is an important part of modern farming and essential for being stewards of the environment. We are very excited to be working with Bunge to connect growers through the shared purpose of being caretakers of the land,” says Rob Clayton, Senior Vice President of Nutrien Ag Solutions in North America. “At Nutrien Ag Solutions, we understand that every farm is unique and pride ourselves on being able to provide personalized, whole-acre solutions for every field through the agronomists and crop consultants that work directly with our growers. We look forward to providing our services during this initial program for the upcoming crop season and beyond.”
Nutrien will provide crop consulting services, custom applications of fertility and/or chemistry, analytical testing of soil, water & tissue, traceability, and data collection through our proprietary platform Agrible. As the world’s leader in oilseed processing and a leading producer and supplier of specialty plant-based oils and fats, Bunge will contract with farmers to manage harvest and post-harvest commercialization. The alliance between Nutrien and Bunge will provide growers with an opportunity to produce lower carbon products, which can potentially open new revenue streams for them.
"The implementation of sustainable farming practices that bring additional value to growers for lower carbon products requires a strong and established ally that shares our values,” says Matt Marshall, Nutrien Ag Solutions Vice President, Sustainable Ag and Retail Strategy. “Through this new Alliance, we will increase the implementation of sustainable practices that impact soil health and nutrient use efficiency to bring new revenue opportunities to the field.”
The initial program will focus on soybeans grown in the regions close to Bunge’s crushing facilities in Council Bluffs, Iowa and Decatur, Indiana. Future expansion could include other locations and crops such as corn and wheat.
Some specific practices that will be implemented include cover cropping, reduced tillage, nutrient management, and responsible pesticide use. These strategies are designed to improve soil health, capture carbon, and increase biodiversity, ultimately contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
“We’re excited about this partnership because it aligns perfectly with our commitment to growers and to sustainability,” says Matt. “We are committed to helping growers achieve the highest yields with the most sustainable solutions possible.”