Building research partnerships among Canadian post-secondary researchers and farmers, producers, and private, public and not-for-profit organizations is key to tackle climate change and build resilience in the agriculture sector. These research partnerships will initiate and accelerate the development of solutions to support a sustainable agriculture and agri-food sector in a net-zero economy, according to a recent press release from the Canadian government. 

As part of the government of Canada's commitment to meet climate mitigation targets, François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, and Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food announced a $87.5 million investment over four years to support 16 collaborative research projects involving 165 researchers from 30 different academic institutions across Canada, that will contribute to a sustainable, profitable and resilient agriculture and agri-food sector.

Minister MacAulay made the announcement along with professor Alejandro Adem, president of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), at the Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation in St. Peter's Bay, PEI, site of one of the funded projects and being led by Aitazaz Farooque, professor and associate dean at the Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation, University of Prince Edward Island.

This project, incorporating researchers and partners from across Atlantic Canada and beyond, aims to develop and apply state-of-the-art climate mitigation approaches to increase farm profitability while lowering environmental risks. It will advance the use of in-field beneficial management practices (BMPs) to improve soil health, lower greenhouse gas emissions, enhance carbon sequestration, and optimize resource allocation. By advancing research on innovative, state-of-the-art and climate-smart precision agriculture systems, technologies, and practices, these investments support Canada's goals for a competitive, sustainable agriculture and agri-food sector.

"Today's recipients underscore the vital role that innovation and research play in shaping the future of agriculture in Canada," Champagne said. "By embracing cutting-edge research and sustainable practices, we are not only safeguarding our environment but also strengthening our economy and ensuring that Canadian farmers are equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow. This initiative is a testament of the government's dedication to driving growth in our agricultural sector while promoting sustainability, resilience, and prosperity for all Canadians."

"As we continue to tackle climate change, it's vitally important that we support our farmers and work to maintain a resilient food system for future generations," MacAulay added. "Our investment in these projects reiterates our commitment to keep our agriculture sector on the cutting-edge."

"At the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, we're uniquely positioned to connect research to the science and innovation priorities of Canada," added professor Alejandro Adem, FRSC, president, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). "We are pleased to partner with the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Sustainable Agriculture Research Initiative to initiate and accelerate the development of transformative solutions required for a sustainable and productive agriculture sector in a net-zero economy. Today's announcement is another important piece of the puzzle in the fight against climate change. Congratulations to all the recipients."