One week after Donald Trump was elected president, Monsanto and DuPont were among hundreds of multinational companies to co-sign a letter to the president-elect, Congress and international leaders demanding action on climate change.
The agribusiness giants co-signed the letter reaffirming their commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement, pledging a move toward a low-carbon economy and more efficient energy use.
“Implementing the Paris Agreement will enable and encourage businesses and investors to turn the billions of dollars in existing low-carbon investments into the trillions of dollars the world needs to bring clean energy and prosperity to all,” the letter read.
The companies had good reason to sound the alarm to the incoming administration – as Trump had repeatedly said on the campaign trail that he planned to pull out of the agreement.
So far, their requests have gone unheard by the administration.
Former Trump aide Myron Ebell, who headed the EPA transition team, told reporters this week that the president will pull out of the agreement.
Shortly after Trump was inaugurated, most references to climate change and a page dedicated to former President Barack Obama’s climate policies were removed from the White House website.
Even before his presidential campaign began, Trump repeatedly cast doubt on the validity of climate change. On Nov. 6, 2012, Trump tweeted that “the concept of global warming was created by and for the Chinese in order to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive.”
Many of Trump’s Cabinet picks — including Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Environmental Protection Agency nominee Scott Pruitt — have questioned the science behind climate change.
But the world’s largest agribusiness companies have not.
“As a responsible company, Bayer is actively committed to climate protection,” said Utz Klages, crop science spokesman for German pharmaceuticals company Bayer.
“ADM’s view is that climate change can, and will, present challenges for many around globe. It has the potential to change the latitudes where different crops are grown,” said Jackie Anderson, spokeswoman for Archer Daniels Midland.
“At Louis Dreyfus Company, we acknowledge that agriculture has a significant impact on climate change, and as a leading merchant and processor of agricultural products, with activities spanning the entire value chain, we take our responsibility for managing that impact very seriously,” said a spokesperson for Louis Dreyfus Commodities.
In fact, Bayer, Louis Dreyfus, Archer Daniels Midland, DuPont, Monsanto and other agribusiness companies have taken steps to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and are investing billions in technologies of the future.
Among them:
- Archer Daniels Midland is investing in one of the world’s largest carbon capture and sequestration projects to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and store them under ground, a research and development project that could end up serving as a model for companies across the globe.
- Bayer is working on developing varieties of oilseeds, maize and wheat that are more stress-tolerant and produce higher yields if weather events become more extreme.
- Bunge is among several companies to develop a no-deforestation policy on the palm oil it uses. The cutting down of forests for palm oil is one of the leading causes of deforestation in the world.
- Cargill has pledged to cut its greenhouse gas emissions, water use and energy use by 5 percent between 2015 and 2020 and to move toward making sure one-fifth of its energy comes from renewable sources.
- Dow Chemical is working with The Nature Conservancy to add $1 billion worth of value to the company through projects that are good for both business and ecosystems.
- DuPont has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by more than 72 percent since 1990.
- Louis Dreyfus has required its entire product value chain to provide audited greenhouse gas emissions calculations.
- Monsanto has pledged to become fully carbon neutral by 2021, and help farmers become carbon neutral, too, by educating them about emission-heavy farming practices.
- Syngenta is working to improve the fertility of 10 million hectares of farmland by 2020 by planting trees and other field margins to prevent erosion and changing tilling techniques.This helps limit the expansion of farmland to ecologically sensitive areas.
Big agribusiness realizes that both people and profit margins are at risk because of a warming planet, but they aren’t the only ones affected by it. The farmers they sell their seeds to and purchase their grain from are expected to see significant impacts.
The potential impacts for agriculture, from the Environmental Protection Agency:
- A warmer climate could mean that “weeds and pests are likely to increase with climate change.” This creates new issues for farmers seeing new weeds and new bugs that they haven’t seen before, decreasing yield and increasing demand for pesticides.
- Higher carbon in the atmosphere, which can stimulate plant growth, can reduce crops nutritional value, reducing the concentrations of protein and essential minerals.
- More extreme weather events, including floods and droughts, are expected, which could mean lower yields or increased risk of crop failure.
- More carbon in the atmosphere could cause plants to grow larger, which will increase yields in good years but makes them more susceptible to drought in bad years.
Here is a comprehensive guide to what some of the world’s biggest agricultural companies are doing related to climate change based on interviews with company officials, the company’s own websites and reports, Security and Exchange Commission documents and publicly available data:
Click on a company name below to jump to that company’s climate change profile
Archer Daniels Midland | Bayer | Bunge | Cargill | Dow Chemical | DuPont | Louis Dreyfus Commodities | Monsanto | Syngenta
Archer Daniels Midland
Does ADM recognize climate change?
Yes.
There is little mention of climate change in Archer Daniels Midland’s corporate policies, but the company has invested in policies to combat climate change and worked to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.
Is ADM doing anything to address climate change concerns?
Archer Daniels Midland is working on one of the most ambitious carbon sequestration projects in the world, though it is largely funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. ADM has also reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 11 percent and its energy usage by 22 percent since 2010. At the request of its shareholders, ADM has also implemented a “no deforestation” policy in both its palm oil and soybean supply chains, the first major agribusiness company to do so.
How does ADM view climate change under a Trump administration?
Unknown. The company declined to comment on the administration.
Details on activities to mitigate climate change:
— Carbon sequestration: The Illinois Industrial Carbon Capture and Storage Project is set to begin storing carbon this year, at a rate of 1 million tons per year until it reaches 2.5 million tons of carbon. It’s the second such project, after the Illinois Basin-Decatur Project stored 1 million tons over the course of about three years.
— Carbon Disclosure Project: ADM participated in the Carbon Disclosure Project in 2014, giving its first-ever public disclosure of emissions information.
— ADM set a company goal to reduce emissions by 15 percent from 2010 to 2020. Already, it has reduced emissions 11 percent, while also reducing water and energy usage 18 and 22 percent, respectively.
— In 2003, ADM reached an agreement with the EPA to reduce emissions by 63,000 tons of air pollutants annually over 10 years through environmental improvements to its plants nationwide. The consent decree was the result of a lawsuit filed against the company for failing to accurately estimate the amount of air pollutants in hundreds of processing units while failing to install air pollution control equipment in others. The company was fined $4.6 million.
Highlighted statements:
ADM makes little mention of climate change in its statements on its website or in its annual report (10-K) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. (Source)
Annual report (10-K) filed February 2016 with the Securities and Exchange Commission | “ The Company’s business could be affected in the future by national and global regulation or taxation of greenhouse gas emissions. In the United States, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has adopted regulations requiring the owners and operators of certain facilities to measure and report their greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. EPA has also begun to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from certain stationary and mobile sources under the Clean Air Act. For example, the U.S. EPA has promulgated rules regarding the construction and operation of boilers, which could indirectly affect the Company by limiting the construction of new coal-fired boilers and significantly increasing the complexity and cost of modifying any existing coal-fired boilers. California is also moving forward with various programs to reduce greenhouse gases. Globally, a number of countries that are parties to the Kyoto Protocol have instituted or are considering climate change legislation, regulations, and agreements. Most notable is the European Union Greenhouse Gas Emission Trading System. The Company has several facilities in Europe that participate in this system. It is difficult at this time to estimate the likelihood of passage, or predict the potential impact, of any additional legislation, regulations or agreements. Potential consequences could include increased energy, transportation, raw material, and administrative costs and may require the Company to make additional investments in its facilities and equipment.” (Source)
ADM Chief Communications Officer Victoria Podesta | “We are confident that our No Deforestation policy is both strong and appropriate for our company. It combines a clear commitment to no deforestation with progressive action focused on our most critical supply chains.” (Source)
Relevant news reports:
- “As ADM aims to end deforestation in its supply chain, will soy become the next palm oil?”
- “An Unusual Tech Bet Could Slow Climate Change”
- “Forest-Hungry Industries Slowly Responding to Pressure About Their Impacts”
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Bayer AG
Does Bayer AG recognize in climate change?
Yes.
Bayer recognizes that greenhouse gas emissions are linked to climate change.
Is Bayer AG doing anything to address climate change concerns?
Since 2005, Bayer has drastically reduced its greenhouse gas emissions while also improving its operation’s energy efficiency. Additionally, Bayer works with a wide range of partners that includes the Min-No Project, which examines ways to reduce nitrous oxide emissions from agricultural systems. Similar to Monsanto, Bayer claims its work will help farmers deal with more volatile and extreme climates. Bayer is working on varieties of oilseeds, maize and wheat that are more stress-tolerant and produce higher yields.
“For some years, we have been working through our climate program both to improve resource and energy efficiency and to find market solutions for protecting the climate and adapting to climate change,” said Utz Klages, a Bayer spokesman.
How does Bayer AG view climate change under a Trump administration?
Bayer AG has not commented on climate change under a Trump administration.
Details on activities to mitigate climate change:
— Carbon Disclosure Project: The Carbon Disclosure Project in October 2016 ranked Bayer as one of the leading international companies in the pharmaceuticals sector in regard to climate protection.
— Bayer set a company goal to reduce emissions from in-house production by 15 percent between 2012 and 2020. During the same period, Bayer hopes to improve energy efficiency by 10 percent.
— Bayer prioritizes “green” vehicles as part of its “EcoFleet” initiative
— 2015 Annual Report | Section 10.3 details Air Emissions
— Groups: CEO Water Mandate, Caring for Climate, Global Compact LEAD Network
Highlighted statements:
Bayer Board of Management Member Dr. Hartmut Klusik, who’s responsible for Human Resources, Technology and Sustainability | “Climate protection and coping with the consequences of climate change remain a permanent challenge for society as a whole. We are taking on this challenge at Bayer and will continue to make important contributions.” (Source)
Bayer AG CEO Werner Baumann | “We are fully committed to helping solve one of the biggest challenges of society – and that is how to feed a massively growing world population in an environmentally sustainable manner.” (Source)
Bayer AG Chairman of the Board of Management Werner Wenning | “I consider climate change to be the most pressing challenge facing the world today.” (Source)
Relevant news reports:
- “Monsanto says Bayer merger will help company tackle climate change challenges”
- “Monsanto shareholders approve merge with Bayer”
- “Real Farming Report – Whose seeds are they anyway?”
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Bunge
Does Bunge recognize climate change?
Yes.
In Bunge’s annual report (10-K) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, shows that Bunge recognizes climate change and is concerns about its impacts. The report reads: “Adverse weather conditions, including as a result of future climate change, may adversely affect the availability, quality and price of agricultural commodities and agricultural commodity products, as well as our operations and operating results.”
Is Bunge doing anything to address climate change concerns?
Bunge is working to reduce its carbon emissions. Between 2010 and 2013, the overall greenhouse gas emissions per ton of output decreased 12 percent, and Bunge’s goal was to decrease that another 3 percent by 2016. Bunge is also working to use less freshwater and energy and produce less waste. Bunge has also pledged to eliminate deforestation from its supply chain.
“Climate change will likely increase the frequency of dislocations in global agricultural trade. The map of global agriculture – where crops can grow most efficiently – will evolve. Farmers will need to adapt and trade flows will evolve accordingly,” said spokeswoman Susan Burns. “As a global supplier of agricultural products, Bunge is well positioned to supply regions impacted by extreme weather, serve customers and meet demand in times of shortage.”
How does Bunge view climate change under a Trump administration?
“We’re monitoring the evolving situation and remain committed to pursuing an environmentally sustainable approach,” said spokeswoman Susan Burns.
Bunge has said that increased climate regulations could have an adverse effect on business. From its annual report: “As a result, the effects of additional climate change regulatory initiatives could have adverse impacts on our business and results of operations. Compliance with environmental laws and regulations did not materially affect our earnings or competitive position in 2015.”
Details on activities to mitigate climate change:
— Carbon Disclosure Project: Bunge participated for the first time to the CDP’s request for emissions data this year but has decreased its output of greenhouse gas emissions 12 percent since 2010.
— Palm oil is one of the biggest contributors to deforestation, and Bunge has pledged a no-deforestation policy when it comes to palm oil, though the company came under fire earlier this year by refusing to cut ties with one supplier.
— Bunge is also working to decrease the greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural activities worldwide. It plans to do so by pushing for market and infrastructure changes to better benefit farmers and allow them to become more efficient in their planting. This includes investing in particular crops by increasing yield and making them more stress-tolerant.
Highlighted statements:
Bunge Limited CEO Soren Schroder | “We’re working on one of the world’s greatest sustainability challenges: to ensure food security for a growing population in a sustainable way. By joining WBCSD, we plan to share our knowledge and expertise as we collaborate with industry leaders to deliver solutions.” (Source)
Bunge annual report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission | “In addition, continued government and public emphasis in countries where we operate on environmental issues, including climate change, conservation and natural resource management, have resulted in and could result in new or more stringent forms of regulatory oversight of our industries, including increased environmental controls, land-use restrictions affecting us or our suppliers and other conditions that could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.” (Source)
Bunge’s official palm oil policy | “While not a plantation company, we recognize the important role we can play in encouraging a transition to more sustainable palm oil production practices that exclude the conversion of areas of high conservation value or high carbon stock, minimize greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, utilize responsible agronomic practices, and protect the rights of workers and local communities.” (Source)
Relevant news reports:
- “How data holds businesses accountable for deforestation”
- “Agribusiness Giant Bunge Commits to Deforestation-Free Palm Oil”
- “Deforestation: $906B At Risk Via ‘Domino Effect’ On The Supply Chain”
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Cargill
Does Cargill recognize climate change?
Yes.
Cargill has repeatedly emphasized its perception that climate change is “a risk influencing our ability to create a more food-secure world.” Cargill recognizes some positive impacts on agriculture from climate change — such as the expansion of growing areas to northern latitudes — but sees the net impact leading to yield loss. Cargill has mentioned online the need to reduce greenhouse gases as part of climate change efforts.
Is Cargill doing anything to address climate change concerns?
Cargill states that it is internally addressing climate change by striving toward a handful of key goals. For example, Cargill is aiming to increase its renewable energy portfolio from 14 percent in 2015 to at least 18 percent by 2020. Cargill supports the development of climate change science by sponsoring academic programs such as the MIT Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change and Stanford’s Center for Food Security and the Environment. In 2014, Cargill endorsed The New York Declaration on Forests at the United Nations Climate Summit, pledging to “do its part” to cut deforestation in half by 2020 and eliminate it by 2030.
How does Cargill view climate change under a Trump administration?
Cargill has not commented on climate change under a Trump administration. But the agribusiness has, in general, stated that it will continue to work toward meeting its climate commitments.
Details on activities to mitigate climate change:
— American Business Act on Climate Pledge: Cargill was among 13 of the largest companies across the American economy that stood with the Obama administration as part of the American Business Act on Climate Pledge. Others included Alcoa, Apple and Bank of America.
— Cargill has also supported the Paris Climate Agreement: “Cargill supports a strong outcome in Paris and has an ongoing commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase low-carbon investments, deploy more clean energy and build a more sustainable enterprise while tackling climate change.”
— Goal: Improve energy efficiency by 5 percent by 2020 compared to 2015
— Goal: Improve freshwater efficiency by 5 percent by 2020 compared to 2015
— Surpassed initial 2015 water efficiency goal (achieved 6.6 percent improvement rate compared to the original goal of 5 percent)
— Goal: Improve greenhouse gas intensity by 5 percent by 2020 compared to 2015
— Surpassed initial 2015 greenhouse gas intensity goal (achieved 7 percent improvement rate compared to the original goal of 5 percent)
— Goal: Increase renewable energy to 18 percent of total energy use by 2020 compared to 2015
— Surpassed initial 2015 renewable energy goal (achieved 14 percent improvement rate compared to the original goal of 12.5 percent)
— Cargill established climate, energy and water goals a decade ago. Since then, it has already improved energy efficiency by about 16 percent, carbon intensity by 9 percent and freshwater efficiency by about 12 percent.
— Sponsorship: MIT Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change; Stanford Center on Food Security and the Environment; University of Minnesota’s Global Landscapes Initiative
Curbing deforestation:
— Deforestation is a major contributor to climate change in terms of adding greenhouse gases and taking away plant life, which helps sequester carbon dioxide.
— Cargill signed the 2014 United Nations’ New York Declaration on Forests, in which the company committed to doing our part to cutting natural forest loss in half by 2020 and ending it by 2030. Cargill added new policy initiatives in 2015.
— These efforts include: Ensuring a sustainable palm oil supply chain in Indonesia and Malaysia; Supporting an extension of the Brazilian soy moratorium indefinitely; Growing a sustainable soy program in Paraguay.
Highlighted statements:
Cargill President and Chief Executive Officer David MacLennan | “Climate change is impacting farmers’ fields and consumers are voting with their values.” (Source)
Cargill President and Chief Executive Officer David MacLennan | “When you drive past some area that’s been deforested or when you fly over it, it’s gut wrenching.” (Source)
Cargill Vice Chairman Paul Conway | “Deforestation is a global issue, but a local challenge. We’re committed to working with farmers, government business, advocacy organizations and consumers to help craft and implement solutions tailored to the diverse landscapes we seek to protect.” (Source)
Former Executive Chairman Greg Page | “…agriculture is so inextricably linked to weather, it is critically important that farmers and the agricultural community participate in the ongoing conversation about climate change, politically fraught as it may be.” (Source)
Cargill Corporate Senior Vice President Joe Stone | “Food Chain Reaction demonstrated that the global food system can withstand the pressures of climate change political instability. But a new approach focused on breaking down barriers and public-private action is required.” (Source)
Cargill Corporate Senior Vice President Joe Stone | “As we look at the landscape of global agriculture, we know that forests are one of the key ways we can limit greenhouse gas emissions and slow climate change. To protect the future of farming, we’ve got to end deforestation.” (Source)
Relevant news reports:
- “Cargill Chief Hopes for ‘Intelligent’ Trade Policy Under Trump”
- “Food giants Cargill and General Mills believe in Climate change. Will they defend themselves from it?”
- “Agriculture must engage in climate change discussion” by former Cargill executive chairman Greg Page
- “How Rising Global Temperatures And Extreme Weather Will Change Farming”
- “Farmers will have an oversized role in climate change response, speaker says”
- “How Cargill is adapting to climate change”
- “Minn. companies that took climate change pledge give to deniers”
- “Five reasons why companies can’t afford to keep driving deforestation”
- “How To Secure The Global Food System In A Time Of Climate Change”
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Dow Chemical
Does Dow Chemical recognize climate change?
Yes.
According to Dow’s website, the company believes that global temperature could rise at least 6 degrees C in the long term, which “will lead to increased heat waves, droughts, storms and floods that can cause severe damage to key infrastructure and crops.”
Is Dow doing anything to address climate change concerns?
Dow has one of the most aggressive sustainability records of any major corporation in the world. This includes unprecedented partnerships with the Nature Conservancy and the EPA, as well as increased pro-science and pro-sustainability lobbying efforts. Dow is committed to adding $1 billion worth of value through projects that are good for business and ecosystems. The company has also pledged not to exceed its 2006 baseline for greenhouse gas emissions.
How does Dow view climate change under a Trump administration?
That’s unknown. Dow did not respond to a request for comment.
While Dow believes in climate change, CEO Andrew Liveris has close ties with Trump. The president named Liveris to head the America Manufacturing Council, which is the private sector advisory committee to the Department of Commerce.
Details on activities to mitigate climate change:
— The Nature Conservancy partnership: Dow has partnered with the Nature Conservancy to show that investing in the environment can also benefit business. Already, the partnership has showed that investment in forests can reduce air pollution, and they have created a tool to assess the value of nature to companies and governments.
— Dow has pledged that by 2020, its absolute emissions will not exceed the recognized target for a maximum global temperature rise of 2 degrees Celsius; this is in addition to not exceeding 2006 levels of greenhouse gas emissions, reducing freshwater intake and reducing waste.
— Lobbying for climate action will be a key part of Dow’s future, as the company has already established a “Sustainability Advocacy Platform,” will establish a “Sustainability Institute” by 2020 to conduct complement this platform and by 2025 will consider starting a think tank to advocate for these issues.
Highlighted statements:
Dow Chemical CEO Andrew Liveris, who signed an open letter in support of Paris Climate Agreement | “Hastening the shift to a low-carbon economy in an economically sustainable manner will generate growth and jobs in both the developing and developed world. Delaying action is not an option?—?it will be costly and will damage growth prospects in the years to come.” (Source)
Dow Chemical CEO Andrew Liveris | “That’s why we still need an energy policy in this country that doesn’t speak to just the climate change agenda. It speaks to the whole input agenda and the conservation agenda.” (Source)
Dow Chemical official policy | “The world needs to dramatically reduce its energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the coming decades and find new, cleaner sources of energy to meet the growing demand. This will require utilization of various clean energy technologies, including renewable energy, nuclear energy, cleaner transport technologies, energy efficiency, and carbon capture and storage.” (Source)
Relevant news reports:
- “Green is good”
- “Dow’s Andrew Liveris and the challenge of ‘Dual Horizons’ ”
- “Donald Trump won’t block Dow-Dupont mega merger”
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DuPont
Does DuPont recognize climate change?
Yes.
DuPont has a position statement that begins, “We believe the global scientific understanding of climate change is sufficient to compel prompt, effective actions to limit emissions of greenhouse gases.” Read the full statement online here.
Is DuPont doing anything to address climate change concerns?
DuPont has worked to reduce its carbon footprint for decades, reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 72 percent between 1990 and 2004. The company is also aiming to reduce its emissions another 15 percent from the 2004 levels.
From 1990 to 2010, DuPont reduced its overall energy use by 6 percent, even as the company grew 40 percent, according to DuPont. DuPont has also aimed to reduce its energy use by another 10 percent by 2020.
In its annual report (10-K) to the Securities and Exchange Commission, DuPont highlights these efforts and the risks and opportunities climate change creates.
How does DuPont view climate change under a Trump administration?
DuPont is a member of Low-Carbon USA, a group of more than 600 companies that sent a letter to the administration and members of Congress requesting the implementation of the Paris Agreement. The letter also asks for a “continuation of low-carbon policies to allow the US to meet or exceed our promised national commitment and to increase our nation’s future ambition; investment in the low carbon economy at home and abroad in order to give financial decision-makers clarity and boost the confidence of investors worldwide; and continued US participation in the Paris Agreement, in order to provide the long-term direction needed to keep global temperature rise below 2°C.”
“We continue to believe that the global scientific understanding of climate change is sufficient to compel prompt, effective actions to limit emissions of greenhouse gases and we hope that the new administration and Congress will continue to support US efforts to limit emissions and adapt to climate change,” said spokeswoman Catherine Andriadis.
Details on activities to mitigate climate change:
— Carbon Disclosure Project: DuPont has consistently improved its score from the Carbon Disclosure Project, reaching an A- in its most recent report.
— In addition to the progress it’s already made, DuPont has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 7 percent from 2015 by 2020. DuPont also pledged to reduce its non-renewable energy use by 10 percent from 2012 by 2020.
Highlighted statements:
Annual report (10-K) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission | “The company is actively engaged in efforts to develop constructive public policies to reduce GHG emissions and encourage lower carbon forms of energy. Such policies may bring higher operating costs as well as greater revenue and margin opportunities.” (Source)
DuPont CEO Edward Breen | “DuPont has come a long way since the 1970s when our focus was on environmental compliance. As one of the corporate pioneers in sustainability, we have taken the initiative to evolve a more integrated approach that sees sustainability as something essential to our being — as part of our ‘corporate DNA.’ ” (Source)
DuPont did not respond to requests for comment from Reuters when asked why the company funds climate change skeptics. (Source)
Relevant news reports:
- “U.S. companies tout climate policies, fund climate skeptics”
- “365+ Businesses Call on Trump to Support Paris Climate Agreement”
- “How the Chemical Industry Joined the Fight Against Climate Change”
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Louis Dreyfus Company
Does Louis Dreyfus recognize climate change?
It seems Louis Dreyfus does recognize climate change.
But Louis Dreyfus hasn’t been as active in climate change discussions compared to Monsanto or Cargill, for example. On the company’s corporate responsibility page, it recognizes the need to procure food in a sustainable manner with minimal environmental impact.
2015 Sustainability Report: “As climate change implications on supply have become better understood, the conversion of forests and savannas to agriculture use is under greater scrutiny.”
2014 Sustainability Report: “In other areas, we have bolstered reporting on environmental data as we near our major goal of setting global, time-balanced targets to reduce resource usage, emissions and waste across our operations. This development is crucial not only as our part in fighting climate change but also as a guarantee that Louis Dreyfus Commodities can remain an efficient, reliable and dynamic long-term partner in the global commodities industry.”
From 2014 Sustainability Report: “Dedicated supply chains are risky given the degree to which global climate change — and its impact on planting seasons, soil moisture and organic matter — is already affecting production.”
Is Louis Dreyfus Company doing anything to address climate change concerns?
Louis Dreyfus Commodities, according to a 2014 corporate report, works in partnership with GERES, a French nonprofit association that aims to preserve the environment and limit climate change and its consequences.
In the past, representatives from Louis Dreyfus have sat on the board for the Renewable Fuels Association.
“Our actions start with the sound management of our environmental footprint. We shoulder this responsibility through continual efforts to reduce fuel and water use and greenhouse gas emissions, while eliminating waste in the parts of the supply chain that we control. We also continuously monitor our own operations to identify efficiencies and preserve biodiversity, and actively engage with our suppliers to do the same.” – a Louis Dreyfus spokesman told the Midwest Center in an email.
How does Louis Dreyfus Company view climate change under a Trump administration?
Louis Dreyfus Commodities has not commented on climate change under a Trump administration.
Details on activities to mitigate climate change:
— Joined UN Global Compact in 2010: The UN Global Compact is a principle-based framework for businesses, stating ten principles in the areas of human rights labor, the environment and anti-corruption.
— Sustainable palm oil: Louis Dreyfus has existing commitments to the RSPO 2013 Principles and Criteria for Sustainable Palm Oil Production. It expanded those commitments in its 2015 sustainability report.
— Groups: The Forest Trust
— “Across our global business, we recognize that our operations have an impact on the environment. We are working to drive greater resource efficiency by standardizing our data gathering process and deploying our Commodities Environmental Management System (EMS) to drive environmental management and conservation in our operations and to help reduce our impact.” – Company website
— Since 2011, a number of Louis Dreyfus Commodities platforms have been required to provide audited greenhouse gas emissions calculations for their entire product value chain.
— California Lower Carbon Fuel Standard: In 2011, Louis Dreyfus Commodities achieved compliance with the State of California’s Lower Carbon Fuel Standard. Ethanol plants in the state completed a voluntary auditing process and worked to improve emissions standards.
Relevant news reports:
- “Louis Dreyfus restarts CEO search”
- “Forest-Hungry Industries Slowly Responding to Pressure About Their Impacts”
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Monsanto
Does Monsanto recognize climate change?
Yes.
Monsanto recognizes that the scientific community largely agrees that climate change is happening and “can affect all of us.” Furthermore, Monsanto recognizes that climate change is caused by high levels of greenhouse gases building up in the atmosphere. To summarize Monsanto’s view on climate change and agriculture: Monsanto believes farmers are at risk because of climate change, but the company also believes farmers can play an important role in mitigating climate change.
Is Monsanto doing anything to address climate change concerns?
Yes, and it has been since as early as 2005.
Monsanto claims that it is reducing its corporate carbon footprint and equipping farmers to better handle climate change’s consequences. Monsanto is part of several climate change-related collaborations, including the Carbon-Neutral Collaborative formed at the end of 2016. Monsanto has set a goal to turn its entire business carbon-neutral by 2021 through operational changes in combination with special incentives and programs for farmers. Other company efforts include Monsanto’s work with Conservation International to halt deforestation in Brazil and Indonesia, and also Monsanto’s work with the Water Efficient Maize for Africa project.
In 2015, Monsanto was among the companies that signed the American Business Act on Climate Pledge, a symbol pledge from American companies to do their part in addressing climate and sustainability concerns.
How does Monsanto view climate change under a Trump administration?
According to the Wall Street Journal, Monsanto was among 350 companies that signed a pledge expressing support for the Paris Agreement and U.S. efforts to cub carbon emissions. The open-letter was written after Trump’s victory.
Details on activities to mitigate climate change:
— Monsanto is among the companies that signed the American Business Act on Climate Pledge.
— Investment and donations: In September 2016, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service awarded $1 million to the National Corn Growers Association’s Soil Health Partnership. The award was dedicated for outreach to help farmers adopt practices that reduce climate change impacts. Monsanto made an additional $1.6 million investment in the effort.
— 2021 carbon neutral pledge: As of November 2015, Monsanto pledged to become fully carbon neutral by 2021. Besides its own company-wide efforts, Monsanto states that it helps farmers become carbon neutral as well. In December 2016, Monsanto helped form the Carbon Neutral Collaborative.
— Monsanto supports alternatives to tilling, which releases carbon in the soil and requires machinery.
— Efficiency: Monsanto is taking several direct efforts to counter climate change. In addition to those efforts, Monsanto claims that it is also helping farmers become more efficient with their resources.
— Monsanto is also involved in the Climate Smart Agriculture Low Carbon Technology Partnership Initiative, the National Corn Growers Association’s Soil Health Partnership and the USDA’s Resilient Economic Agricultural Practices with the ATiP Foundation.
Highlighted statements:
Monsanto CEO Hugh Grant | “Climate change is one of the biggest issues we face in agriculture, as well as one of the most pressing challenges facing humanity.” (Source)
Monsanto CEO Hugh Grant | “By bringing together our expertise and our resources to drive this shared vision, we can do even more together to benefit growers around the world and to help address broad global challenges like climate change and food scarcity.” (Source)
Monsanto President and Chief Operating Officer Brett Begemann | “Climate change is a global challenge facing the entire planet and agriculture has the opportunity to be a huge part of the solution. … We look forward to continued collaboration with farmers and forward-thinking industry partners who are leading the way in making greenhouse gas reduction a reality on the farm.” (Source)
Monsanto President and Chief Operating Officer Brett Begemann | “Since last year, we’ve been energized and inspired by the productive discussions and efforts around climate change from the many stakeholders involved, especially our farmer customers who are the ultimate stewards of the land.” (Source)
Monsanto Lead Scientist for Environmental Strategy for Agriculture Michael Lohuis | “At Monsanto, we are committed to encouraging the use of innovative farming techniques and carbon smart practices that will help reduce emissions.” (Source)
Monsanto Global Stakeholder Engagement Lead Martha Schlicher | “Data driven insights can guide continued innovation across the agricultural community to provide growers with a greater ability to mitigate the impact of more volatile weather.” (Source)
Relevant news reports:
- “Why The Climate Corporation Sold Itself To Monsanto”
- “Five Ways Monsanto Wants to Profit Off Climate Change”
- “Monsanto shareholders approve Bayer’s $57 billion takeover”
- “Companies on Climate: Trump or No, Still Cutting Emissions”
- “Can Monsanto Save the Planet?”
- “Monsanto to lead public-private coalition on climate change”
- “The Paradox of American Farmers and Climate Change”
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Syngenta
Does Syngenta recognize climate change?
Yes.
According to its website, Syngenta believes, “Climate change is disrupting agriculture in every corner of the world, from droughts or floods that damage crops, to rising seas that threaten rural communities.”
Is Syngenta doing anything to address climate change concerns?
Syngenta implemented the Good Growth Plan to address climate change and food security concerns, pledging to improve soil, biodiversity and make crops more efficient. Syngenta is also a member of Climate Smart Agriculture, an initiative by World Business Council for Sustainable Development, to help agribusiness adapt to climate change.
How does Syngenta view climate change under a Trump administration?
That’s unknown. The company did not respond to a request for comment.
Details on activities to mitigate climate change:
— Syngenta has improved the fertility of 2.4 million hectares of farmland, almost a quarter of its goal of 10 million hectares by 2020. The company does this by planting trees and other field margins to prevent erosion and changing tilling techniques.
— Climate Smart Agriculture, an initiative Syngenta is a part of, is working to improve agricultural techniques across the world to increase efficiency and end deforestation.
— Syngenta views the climate crisis largely through food security issues, showing that the difficulties created by a growing population and climate change exacerbate this crisis. Much of Syngenta’s focus is on improving the yields and efficiency of crops and farmland, which means adapting plants to changing weather conditions.
— There is very little information available about Syngenta’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Highlighted statements:
Syngenta CEO J. Erik Fyrwald (in 2007) | “This year the overwhelming consensus is the number one challenge facing the world is climate change.” (Source)
Syngenta Global COO Davor Pisk | “In the last few years, we have focused on making agriculture more sustainable and much more environment-friendly. We succeeded in developing a new seed variety, which reduces the cycle time from plantation to harvest. Hence, there is less exposure to uncertainty and climate change.” (Source)
Syngenta Annual Report | “Our efficiency and our sustainability go hand-in-hand. Our viability — now and in the future — depends on using resources efficiently and maintaining our license to operate by minimizing our external impacts.” (Source)
Relevant news reports:
- “Four multinationals shifting their business models for sustainability”
- “Our focus is on more crop per drop”
- “U.S. Approval of Syngenta Deal Brings GMO Food a Step Closer to China”
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