Minnesota has received a significant boost to its food systems, thanks to a $200 million grant from the U.S. EPA. This funding, awarded through the federal Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program, is dedicated to cutting climate pollution within the state’s food systems. Spearheaded by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) in collaboration with various state, local, and tribal entities, this climate-Smart Food systems project will distribute the investment across multiple initiatives over the next five years. These initiatives are designed to foster a more equitable and sustainable food future for all Minnesotans.
Webinar Highlights Climate-Smart Food System Initiative
On October 10th, MPCA hosted an informative webinar to detail the goals and strategies of this ambitious initiative. The webinar shed light on how the project aims to significantly reduce climate pollution, stimulate economic opportunities, combat food insecurity, and enhance the overall health and well-being of current and future generations in Minnesota.
Alt text: Play icon for webinar video about Minnesota’s smart food system initiative.
Key Initiatives for a Smarter Food Future
Minnesota’s climate-smart food system initiative addresses critical investment gaps to propel the state towards a more sustainable and equitable food ecosystem. The funding will be strategically allocated across seven key areas:
Peatland Restoration: Natural Climate Solutions
A significant $20 million is allocated to peatland restoration. The Department of Natural Resources and the Board of Water and Soil Resources will collaborate to implement programs aimed at protecting and restoring over 10,000 acres of Minnesota’s peatlands. These vital ecosystems play a crucial role in absorbing and storing climate pollution, making their preservation essential for a smarter food system.
Climate-Friendly Agricultural Practices: Supporting Farmers
Another $20 million will empower farmers to adopt climate-friendly agricultural practices. The Department of Agriculture will expand successful programs like the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification and Soil Health Financial Assistance programs. This expansion will support farmers in implementing practices such as utilizing controlled-release fertilizers, transitioning from annual row crops to perennial crops, and adopting no-till farming methods, all contributing to smarter and more sustainable agriculture.
Industrial Innovation in Food Systems: Reducing Waste and Pollution
A substantial $60 million investment will fuel industrial innovation within food processing sites. The MPCA will support projects focused on reducing climate pollution, enhancing operational efficiency, and minimizing waste in food and organic material processing. This investment is critical for creating a more resilient and smarter food industry.
Cleaner Refrigerants: Greening Food Storage
$10 million is dedicated to promoting cleaner refrigerant technologies. The MPCA will offer grants to small businesses, supermarkets, schools, hospitals, food banks, corner stores, and similar organizations. These grants will enable smaller entities to invest in advanced cooling equipment that significantly reduces climate pollution, ensuring smarter and greener food storage solutions.
Vehicle and Equipment Replacement: Cleaner Food Transportation
$20 million will facilitate the transition to cleaner fuels in vehicles and equipment used in food production and transportation. The MPCA and Department of Agriculture will launch new programs to support this shift, aiming for a smarter and less polluting food supply chain.
Food Scraps Management and Waste Prevention: Maximizing Resources
$33 million will scale up successful programs focused on efficient food scraps management and preventing food waste. By keeping valuable nutrients in circulation for human consumption, livestock feed, and soil enrichment, and preventing methane emissions from landfills, these initiatives contribute to a smarter and more circular food economy.
Food Sovereignty and Local Food Economies: Strengthening Communities
Finally, $35 million will be invested in food sovereignty and vibrant local food economies. The MPCA and Minnesota Department of Health will partner with Tribal Nations and establish regional food networks across the state. This collaboration aims to enhance food security, expand local food markets, strengthen food sovereignty for tribal communities, and reduce climate pollution within local food systems, building a smarter and more community-focused food future.
Stay Informed on Smart Food Initiatives
To stay updated on the progress and opportunities related to Minnesota’s climate-smart food system initiatives, sign up for information updates. Join us in building a smarter, more sustainable food future for Minnesota.
