Alberta takes steps to curb agriculture emissions with new ERA Challenge
Alberta's provincial government is accepting proposals for the Emissions Reduction Alberta Challenge.
2 June 2020
2 minute read
Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) is calling for proposals for the challenge, which will accelerate innovation in support of long-term competitiveness and stimulate growth in the critically important agriculture, agri-food and forestry sectors.
Projects that result from this challenge will lead to job creation, attract local and international investments and open up new markets.
A total of $40 million will come from the TIER Fund—a key part of Alberta’s climate response, funded by industry—to support the challenge. These investments will be used to aid recovery, strengthen existing industries and help create new opportunities from small and medium enterprises across these sectors.
The $40 million will help farmers, ranchers, industry, and innovators navigate the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing market implications. These innovations will lead to positive impacts, such as lower production and processing costs for food and fibre and natural solutions to remove carbon from the atmosphere.
The application deadline is 27 August at 5 pm MT. More information and eligibility criteria can be found on the ERA website. An informational webinar will be held on 29 June.
Jason Nixon, Minister of Environment and Parks said:
“Our government is proud to fund the Food, Farming, and Forestry Challenge. This is a strong example of how Alberta is thoughtfully advancing creative solutions to achieve both emissions reductions and greater economic and environmental resilience. Alberta has shown significant leadership in emissions reduction via enhancing agricultural and forestry practices and we look forward to continuing on this path through further market-based opportunities."
Steve MacDonald, CEO of Emissions Reduction Alberta said:
“Our mandate at ERA is to improve the cost and carbon competitiveness of all sectors. At this time of global uncertainty, we are taking bold action to accelerate technology-led innovation that ensures these key industries can grow sustainably.”
Bob Lowe, president of the Canadian Cattlemen's Association said:
"Investment in innovation plays an important part in the continuation of stable, sustainable food production in Canada. The Food, Farming, and Forestry Challenge is a positive thing for Alberta's beef producers, while helping ensure Canadians have continued access to high-quality and nutritious products."
Read more about the TIER programme here.
