ASTA Applauds Bipartisan Efforts to Recognize the Role of Agriculture in Climate Solutions

Alexandria, VA—April 20, 2021–The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) is pleased by the bipartisan reintroduction of the Growing Climate Solutions Act which seeks to address climate change by enabling farmers to participate in carbon markets and providing a platform for agriculture to play a role in addressing climate change.

“The entire agriculture community, including the seed industry, has a critical role to play in driving breakthrough solutions to address climate change and other pressing challenges facing the future of our planet,” said ASTA President and CEO Andy LaVigne. “We applaud the bipartisan efforts led by Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.), as well as Ranking Member John Boozman (R-Ark.) who worked to ensure farmers have a prominent seat at the table when it comes to climate policies.”

As a member of the Food & Agriculture Climate Alliance (FACA), ASTA is committed to working with a strong coalition of diverse partners in the food, agriculture and environmental communities to help drive climate solutions through a voluntary, scientific, market-driven approach. The association looks forward to continuing to work with FACA and Members of the U.S. Senate and House to deliver workable and effective climate solutions that contribute to environmental and economic sustainability.

“The agriculture community is leaning into this issue like never before, and the U.S. seed industry is proud to play a leading role in continuing to drive innovative solutions that allow farmers to produce better, more resilient crops, while using fewer resources and addressing global challenges, from climate change to food security,” said LaVigne. “It all starts with seed.” Learn more about the many ways better seed contributes to sustainability.

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Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) represents over 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding and related industries in North America. ASTA is the leading voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. The association’s broad membership offers varieties from alfalfa to zucchini and all production types including conventional, organic and biotech. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.