The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded Minnesota $200 million to cut climate pollution from our state’s food systems through the federal Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program. Led by the MPCA in collaboration with other state agencies, local governments, and Tribal Nations, the climate-smart food systems project will distribute this investment through multiple programs administered by these organizations over the next five years.
Climate-smart food systems webinar
MPCA held a webinar in October 2024 to share information about how this initiative aims to reduce climate pollution, advance economic opportunity, fight hunger, and support the health and wellbeing of all Minnesotans and future generations.
Overview
Minnesota’s climate-smart food system initiative will fill critical investment gaps and accelerate momentum toward a more equitable, climate-smart food system through the following initiatives:
Peatland restoration, $20 million
The Department of Natural Resources and the Board of Water and Soil Resources will facilitate programs to protect and restore more than 10,000 acres of peatlands in Minnesota, which absorb and store climate pollution.
Climate-friendly agricultural practices, $20 million
The Department of Agriculture will expand successful initiatives including the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification and Soil Health Financial Assistance programs to support farmers adopting climate-friendly agriculture practices, such as use of controlled-release fertilizers, transition from row crops to perennials, and no-till farming.
Industrial innovation in food systems, $60 million
The MPCA will support investments in food and organic material processing sites to cut climate pollution, improve efficiency, and reduce waste.
Cleaner refrigerants, $10 million
The MPCA will provide grants to small businesses, supermarkets, schools, hospitals, food banks, corner stores, and similar organizations making it possible for smaller entities to invest in cooling equipment that reduces climate pollution.
Vehicle and equipment replacement, $20 million
The MPCA and Department of Agriculture will implement new programs to switch to cleaner fuels in vehicles and equipment we use to grow and transport our food.
Food scraps management and prevention of wasted food, $33 million
The MPCA will scale up successful programs to keep valuable nutrients in circulation to feed people, livestock, and soil and prevent significant methane emissions.
Food sovereignty and vibrant local food economies, $35 million
The MPCA and Minnesota Department of Health will collaborate with Tribal Nations and establish regional food networks statewide to improve food security. expand local food economies, strengthen food sovereignty, and reduce climate pollution in Tribal and local food systems.
