Cargill has introduced a new program in Australia, designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable canola while providing farmers with new income opportunities.

The initiative, Cargill SustainConnect, builds on a successful pilot run in 2023 and aims to connect Australian canola growers with emerging markets for sustainable agriculture. It is part of Cargill’s broader global efforts to integrate sustainability into its supply chains, complementing programs like Cargill RegenConnect in North America and Europe.

This program offers financial incentives to farmers who adopt sustainable agricultural practices that improve soil health and reduce carbon emissions. Participants can select from a range of practices, including advanced nutrient management, reduced or no-tillage, and retaining crop residues. By implementing these techniques, growers can contribute to a more sustainable food system while enhancing the long-term productivity of their land.

To ensure transparency and accurate assessment, Cargill has partnered with Regrow, a leading carbon measurement company. Regrow uses advanced tools, including remote sensing, in-field data collection, and soil and crop health modeling, to measure and verify the program’s outcomes. This partnership ensures a seamless enrollment process for farmers and provides verified results for both growers and buyers in sustainability markets.

Under SustainConnect, enrolled farmers are guaranteed a minimum payment of $25 per hectare, contingent on meeting program requirements. Total earnings depend on the number of hectares enrolled and the successful implementation of sustainable practices. Participants also gain access to new sustainability markets and opportunities within environmentally conscious supply chains, validated by Regrow.

Initially available to canola farmers in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria, Cargill plans to expand the program to Western Australia and potentially other crops in the future, with early barley trials already underway.

Australian farmers interested in joining Cargill SustainConnect must enroll by March 31. More information is available on the program’s website.