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Stabenow releases report on climate crisis

Senate Ag Committee Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow has released a report on the climate crisis in her state and how agriculture can be part of the solution.

She tells Brownfield her report is a follow up to a Senate Ag Committee hearing on climate change.

“Farmers are really at the front end here of what’s been going on.  We’ve seen more and more volatile extreme weather and then on top of that, with the warming and so on, we’re seeing more and more invasive pests.”

She points to new policies in the 2018 Farm Fill for climate smart solutions.

“In terms of emitting carbon pollution, agriculture in Michigan is down at nine percent and across the country.”

Stabenow says conservation practices and programs, increased use of renewable energy and biofuels, and forestland management are all ways to reduce carbon emissions. 

Transportation makes up the largest segment of greenhouse gases, about 30 percent, and Stabenow also sees an opportunity for Michigan’s auto industry.

Stabenow recently hosted roundtable discussions with Michigan ag, environment and public health leaders on how Michigan is positioned to address the climate crisis.