California takes giant step toward approving first crop-based carbon standards

(SACRAMENTO, Dec. 18, 2014) The California Air Resources Board today gave a “thumbs up” to a pioneering staff proposal that would allow U.S. rice farmers to sell credits on the state’s landmark carbon market. The board directed staff to evaluate and consider public comments, then finalize the Rice Cultivation Projects Compliance Offset Protocol for a vote as early as next spring.

”The board took a giant step today toward bringing crop-based agriculture into California’s cap-and-trade market,” said Robert Parkhurst, director of agriculture greenhouse gas markets at Environmental Defense Fund. “For the first time, farmers may soon be able to participate in the market and earn new revenue for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from cultivation. It’s a win for farmers and the environment.

“Rice is the gateway protocol,” said Parkhurst. “It sets the stage for other crops to be added to the state’s carbon market. We believe all farmers should be rewarded for switching to climate-smart agricultural practices. It’s the best path forward for meeting growing demands for food while nurturing the natural systems that sustain us all.”