Food or Fuel? Navigating the Critical Choices Between Agriculture and Bioenergy – Insights from the AG Information Network of the West

This is Tim Hammerich from the Ag Information Network, bringing you insights with the Farm of the Future Report.

Agriculture has a unique chance to be a source of sustainable aviation fuel, known as SAF. Some worry this will divert resources from food production. Sam Eathington from Corteva Agriscience disagrees. He believes crops can be grown in winter, between primary crops like corn and soybeans.

Eathington highlights several oil-rich crops, such as juncea and winter canola, that align with SAF needs, especially in Europe. Corteva is partnering with BP to take these crops for the SAF market. This collaboration presents a great opportunity for farmers. They can diversify their crops, bringing in additional revenue without compromising food production.

Furthermore, advancements in hybrid wheat could increase yields significantly. If some farmland shifts from wheat to biofuels, it could benefit the overall farming system. As Eathington puts it, it’s not a matter of food versus fuel; rather, it’s about finding balance and maximizing productivity.

This perspective aligns with recent trends in agriculture, where farmers are looking for innovative ways to sustain both food production and meet energy demands. A recent survey indicates that 70% of farmers are open to growing alternative crops if they promise profitability. As the demand for greener solutions increases, agriculture’s role in energy production is likely to grow.

For more information on sustainable practices in agriculture, check out resources from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

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biofuels, winter canola, Corteva Agriscience, Agriscience Explained