By Jamie Martin
During the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack shared the Administration's advancements in climate-smart agriculture.
Highlighting the transformative impact of the Inflation Reduction Act and initiatives like the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities, Vilsack detailed efforts to integrate climate action into U.S. agriculture and forestry.
“Over the past four years, the Administration has made historic progress in tackling climate change by making unprecedented investments in climate action," Vilsack stated, underscoring the administration's commitment to supporting farmers with climate-smart practices and market access.
The administration has nearly doubled support for voluntary conservation and climate-smart practices on farms and forestlands, positioning the agriculture sector as a leader in climate resilience.
This includes a significant increase in funding for initiatives that develop new markets for climate-smart commodities, benefiting rural communities by providing new income streams.
Secretary Vilsack also noted recent achievements under the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM for Climate), which has mobilized billions in investment for agricultural innovation.
The AIM for Climate initiative has developed a robust network, enhancing global collaboration on sustainable agriculture practices.
These efforts are part of a broader strategy to make the agricultural system more equitable, sustainable, and resilient, contributing to global food security and the well-being of rural areas.
Vilsack's participation in U.S. Center at COP 29 from November 18-20 aims to further these goals and encourage continued international cooperation on climate action in agriculture.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National