News Archives

Sievers Family Farms Turns Farm Waste into Fuel and Fertilizer

Sievers Family Farms in Iowa is one of a growing number of farms using manure-based anaerobic digesters. These digesters convert farm waste into valuable byproducts, such as renewable electricity and fertilizer, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

USSA Newsletter: October 2024

In this issue, we share the findings of the 2024 Global Agricultural Productivity Report (The GAP Report) by Virginia Tech. The report warns of sluggish productivity growth, highlighting the urgent need to bridge the gap between technology development and farmer adoption.

Record $7.7 Billion Allocated for Climate-Smart Agriculture

In response to shifting weather patterns and more severe extreme weather events, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is stepping up its efforts to help American producers fight climate change.

EU Officials Inspired by Climate Smart Agriculture Mission to the U.S.

In mid-October, the U.S. Sustainability Alliance (USSA) hosted three European Union (EU) officials for a Climate Smart Agriculture mission to the United States. The mission aimed to enhance understanding of U.S. conservation programs and highlight U.S. leadership in agricultural sustainability.

USLGE Brings Benefits of U.S. Hereford Genetics to the UK

Pictured: USLGE board member Jordan Schlake (far left) and Hereford breeders Tyler Kester, Kester Herefords (far right) and Madi Ridder, Falling Timber Farm (second left) meet with members of the […]

GAP Report: Global Agricultural Productivity Growth Falls Short of Demand

A new report from Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences warns that a dramatic slowdown in agricultural productivity growth threatens the world’s ability to feed a rising population and address environmental concerns.

USSA Newsletter: September 2024

This month, we welcome the American seed Trade Association (ASTA) to the USSA. With ASTA on board, USSA now has 28 members who accounted for approximately $10.6 billion in food and agricultural exports to the UK and EU in 2023, based on U.S. Census Bureau data via Trade Data Monitor.

Only Natural Celebrates Inaugural Student Design Competition Winners

On 24 September, creative talent and industry experts from the natural materials sector gathered at the U.S. Embassy in London for the inaugural Only Natural Student Design Competition Awards. Organized by the Leather and Hide Council of America with natural fiber trade association partners, including the Softwood Export Council and the American Hardwood Export Council, the competition aims to challenge the future of design by championing the use of natural, sustainable materials.

The American Seed Trade Association Joins The USSA

The U.S. Sustainability Alliance (USSA) welcomes the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) as its newest member. ASTA represents nearly 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding, and related industries. It brings USSA’s membership to 28 associations across farming, fisheries, forestry, and related sectors, collectively responsible for approximately $10.6 billion in food and agricultural exports to the UK and EU in 2023.

California Conserves More Than a Quarter of its Land in Historic Milestone

California is a leader not only in agricultural production and exports but also in conservation, as evidenced by a report released by Governor Gavin Newsom. The 2024 Pathways to 30x30 Annual Progress Report shows that California is on track to meet its ambitious goal of conserving 30% of state lands and coastal waters by 2030.

AFIA Reports 79% Rise in Value of U.S. Animal Food Exports

The volume of U.S. animal food exports increased by 120% between 2022 and 2023, while the value rose by 79%. That’s according to the American Feed Industry Association’s (AFIA’s) latest annual report. Our Industry, Our Promise outlines the state of the industry and how AFIA is addressing challenges and opportunities for its members, including legislative and supply chain issues, feed and food safety, and sustainability.

Rooted in Conservation: Partnership Drives Best Practice on Louisiana Rice Farms

Join us on a virtual trip to southwest Louisiana to meet two rice farms that are models in conservation. Durand Farms in St. Martinville and Simon Farms in Morse are collaborating with organizations such as USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ducks Unlimited, USA Rice, and their local Soil and Water Conservation District to protect their soil and improve their water use and quality.