Click here to learn more about emissions from Alberta's cropping industry and practices to reduce emissions.

Over the last century, modern industry and lifestyles have rapidly increased greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations in the Earth's atmosphere. The majority of scientists studying this issue believe that these increasing concentrations are contributing to global warming. Rapid global warming could result in such problems as more severe weather events, more forest fires, and damage to water resources.

Canada has committed to reduce the nation's GHG emissions to 6% below 1990 levels by 2008 to 2012. Canada's emissions have continued to grow since 1990, making our target more distant. The national and provincial processes to address Canada's commitment have indicated that all sectors of industry will be involved in reducing emissions. In addition, recent surveys show the majority of consumers in Canada and abroad believe action has to be taken now on GHG emissions.

The cropping industry also has an immediate economic stake in reducing its emissions because these emissions representa loss of costly nutrients and other inputs. Following conservation practices that reduce emissions will also help producers meet other environmental objectives such as improved soil and water quality.