News In Brief:
– The Canadian government allocates $3.1 million to enhance the National Index on Agri-Food Performance, supporting sustainability in the agri-food sector.
– The initiative aims to empower local farmers and food brands, ensuring transparency and accuracy in sustainability assessments to meet global demand for high-quality, sustainable products.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, has announced a noteworthy investment of over $3.1 million in the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI) under the AgriAssurance Program. This initiative, a part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, aims to bolster the agri-food sector’s sustainability benchmarks.
The funding will specifically target enhancements to the National Index on Agri-Food Performance. Acting as a crucial reference point for companies to declare the sustainability of their practices, the index covers various aspects from food production to retail. The improvements will involve a collaborative effort to refine the tool, fill in missing information, and create an upgraded version of the Index.
A comprehensive look at sustainability
The Index evaluates the sustainability of Canada’s farming and food sector, considering its impact on the environment, food quality, and its contributions to the economy and society. The upcoming version is anticipated to play a pivotal role in showcasing the agriculture sector’s commitment to operating sustainably, aiding Canadian food brands in substantiating their claims, and empowering consumers to make informed choices.
Acknowledging the increasing consumer demand for sustainable products worldwide, Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, emphasised the potential of Canadian farmers to meet this demand. By aligning sustainability measurements, the sector can capitalise on market opportunities, backed by comprehensive data.
Tyler McCann, Managing Director of CAPI, expressed the institute’s commitment to advancing sustainability in Canada’s agriculture and food system. Additionally, David McInnes, Executive Director of the Centre for Agri-Food Benchmarking, highlighted the project’s role in positioning Canada’s agri-food sector as a global leader in sustainable practices.
Quick facts
The AgriAssurance Program supports national-level projects to enhance industry assurance systems, addressing market and regulatory requirements. CAPI, established in 2004, collaborates with stakeholders to address emerging challenges in the agri-food sector. The National Index on Agri-Food Performance, launched in May 2023, represents a collaborative effort involving 142 public-private partners.
Through strategic investments and collaborative initiatives, Canada aims to solidify its position as a frontrunner in sustainable agriculture and agri-food production, fostering economic resilience and meeting the evolving needs of consumers worldwide.
