Initiative
CONSUMERS & SUSTAINABILITY
Understanding the Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) and Its Impact on Sustainability
Why Sustainability Matters to Everyone
Sustainability in food production is crucial not just for the environment but also for the health and safety of consumers. Producers, just like consumers, are concerned with preserving soil, water, and air quality. As major food purchasing companies, including McCain’s and McDonalds, increasingly require sustainably sourced products, environmental stewardship becomes more significant.
What is an Environmental Farm Plan (EFP)?
An Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) helps producers assess their farming practices, identify potential risks, and develop action plans to address those risks. As producers make identified changes they can mitigate risks, enhance the quality of their livestock and crops, and adhere to sustainable practices.
EFP+
Building on the success of the traditional Environmental Farm Plan (EFP), EFP+ is an enhanced version that enables producers to make globally recognized sustainability claims and access new markets. Specifically tailored for Alberta, EFP+ allows producers to achieve equivalency with the Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA) part of the International Sustainability Assessment Initiative. EFP+ aims to advertise environmental performance for producers while aligning with global sustainable sourcing initiatives.
Sustainable Sourcing and Major Corporations
Many large companies are now setting standards for sustainable sourcing:
- McCain’s: Requires EFP certification for its suppliers, leading to a mandate for the Potato Growers of Alberta to complete EFPs for membership.
- Dairy Farmers of Canada: Requires EFP certification through proAction, a comprehensive program that ensures dairy farmers meet high standards for environmental stewardship, animal care, and food safety.
- Rahr Malting and the Alberta Sugar Beet Growers are the first two companies in Alberta to use EFP+ in working towards making international sustainability claims that are equivalent to the FSA standard. Rahr Malting Co.’s has recently achieved the Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA) Gold Level.
Global and Local Initiatives
The Environmental Farm Plan is a crucial tool for promoting sustainable agriculture in Canada, helping farmers manage their environmental impacts while improving their operations. Each province has tailored its EFP to local environmental issues and agricultural practices. By adapting to local conditions and challenges, the EFP plays a vital role in ensuring the long-term health of both the agricultural sector and the environment.
Producers who complete an EFP receive a letter of completion, and a certificate, which showcases their commitment to environmental stewardship. These certifications are increasingly valuable as many large purchasers demand sustainably sourced products.
Programs like Verified Beef Production, CanadaGap, proAction, and EFP+ are part of broader efforts to ensure sustainability across agricultural sectors. These initiatives help align with global sustainability standards and enhance the credibility of sustainably sourced products.
Learn More About EFP and EFP+
What You Can Do as a Consumer
To support sustainable agriculture, consider these actions:
- Educate Yourself: Learn which food products are sustainably sourced and which companies prioritize sustainability.
- Inquire Locally: When shopping at grocery stores, farmers markets, or dining at restaurants, ask if the products are sustainably sourced or if the farms have completed an EFP, EFP+, or other relevant certifications like proAction.
- Demand Sustainability: Your inquiries and choices can drive demand and influence market trends toward more sustainable practices.
Learn More About EFP and EFP+
- Introductory Video: Watch producers discuss their commitment to sustainable agriculture and how EFP assists them.
- Clarifying common misconceptions about the EFP podcast : "Business Wide View: AGCHNL," featuring Lisa Nadeau, EFP Director
- EFP+ Details: Learn more about the enhanced features and benefits of EFP+.
Sustainable food practices benefit everyone—farmers, consumers, and the environment. By supporting and advocating for sustainability, you help promote a healthier, more responsible food system.