Smart Net-Zero

January 19, 2024 | USDA | 

At the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, Agriculture was underscored as a critical solution to combatting climate change. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young showcased the USDA's significant investments in climate-focused agricultural and forestry research, practices, and global partnerships. Central to the discussions was the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM for Climate), led by the United States and United Arab Emirates, aiming to bolster investment in climate-smart agriculture and food systems innovation. AIM for Climate partners doubled their investments to over $17 billion in just one year, with over 600 partners, including 55 countries. Efforts to reduce methane emissions, particularly through groundbreaking research on livestock methane emissions, were highlighted. USDA's leadership in agricultural research and development, including collaboration with NASA, emphasized the importance of science and data in combatting the climate crisis.