Not Just a Fad Sharing soy’s sustainability story BY KRISS NELSON
C
ustomers have increasing expectations that the products they purchase contain sustainable ingredients. Though it seems new, the conversation about sustainability and sourcing sustainable soy started in Europe nearly 10 years ago. Farmers have focused on it for generations, but not necessarily under the buzzword of “sustainability,” according to Abby Rinne, director of sustainability for the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC). “Customers are looking to verify the soy they are purchasing is raised responsibly from an environmental, social and economic perspective,” Rinne says. Recognizing the need to have a formalized response to ensure the
sustainability of soy, the U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP) was developed through a multistakeholder process with participants throughout the value chain. SSAP looks at the U.S. production in aggregate and includes third-party audits by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Sustainable farming practices, such as cover crops, no-till and saturated buffer strips, allow farmers to use less water, prevent soil erosion and decrease energy use. This means U.S. soy farmers are doing more with less to meet the world’s growing demand for food.
Four directives of the SSAP The U.S. Sustainability Assurance
Protocol describes the regulations, processes and management practices that ensure sustainable soybean production.
1 // Biodiversity and High
Carbon Stock: The regulatory obligations to enhance biodiversity and maintain wetlands, grasslands and forests.
2 // Production Practices: Includes practices that enhance the environment and protect our natural resources while increasing production efficiency.
3 // Public and Labor Health
and Welfare: Regulations and laws providing for the protection of the public and workers.
“Customers are looking to verify the soy they are purchasing is raised responsibly from an environmental, social and economic perspective.” — Abby Rinne, director of sustainability for USSEC
22 | JANUARY 2022 | IASOYBEANS.COM
