Chapter X. Conclusion

Agriculture is responsible for more than 10% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, or, fully aggregating all agricultural impacts together, over 20%. At the same time, the full food system contributes about one third of total emissions.

Curbing climate change is not the only reason that policymakers and producers should support agricultural practices that reduce emissions or increase soil carbon. Virtually all of these practices—including, for example, the use of cover crops, managed rotational grazing, agroforestry, silvopasture, and improved manure management—also provide other environmental benefits such as cleaner water or better wildlife habitat. In addition, these practices make agricultural operations more resilient to changes in weather patterns that will come with climate change. Many of these practices are also cost effective and profitable, especially once established.

Agriculture is a highly subsidized industry that continues to be shaped by public programs and support. Policymakers should use these pathways to encourage the widespread adoption of climate-friendly agricultural practices, which will lead to a more climate-resilient food supply, healthier rural communities, less erratic and extreme weather, and a more stable and vibrant farm sector. There are tremendous opportunities for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to fund additional agricultural research, development, and extension to advance climate goals.

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reforms in regulatory strategies, tax policy, lending and subsidy programs, and greenhouse gas pricing. The private and nonprofit sectors also have a significant role to play in research, education, and market development as well as in encouraging and leveraging governmental action.

Climate change presents the most significant threat to agriculture and human well-being in the world today. While change has often been slow in the agricultural sector, policymakers now have a real opportunity to realize climate neutrality in agriculture, while improving other environmental attributes, rural communities, and the lives of agricultural workers. Policymakers and others should rise up to this challenge. Our future depends on it.

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