February 27, 2024 | USDA |
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has made significant progress on key climate initiatives in 2024. They have published a report justifying the establishment of the Greenhouse Gas Technical Assistance Provider and Third-Party Verifier Program, authorized under the Growing Climate Solutions Act (GCSA). This program aims to help farmers, ranchers, and private landowners participate in voluntary carbon markets by providing trusted information and reducing market confusion. Additionally, USDA is preparing to implement the SUSTAINS Act, which allows the agency to accept private contributions for conservation programs. These efforts align with USDA's commitment to promoting climate-smart practices and working lands conservation under the Biden-Harris Administration.