IFA and Proba introduce global initiative to reduce greenhouse gases in agriculture

The International Fertilizer Association (IFA) and Proba, a decarbonization-focused startup, have announced a joint venture aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the fertilizer industry. The initiative focuses on developing a new quantification and verification standard to promote the adoption of enhanced-efficiency fertilizers, particularly those containing nitrification and urease inhibitors. These inhibitors are designed to slow down certain biological processes in fertilizers, effectively reducing nitrogen losses and emissions of gases such as nitrous oxide.

By engaging with the voluntary carbon market, the partnership intends to introduce a cost-sharing mechanism to mitigate risks for participants across the fertilizer supply chain. The strategy centers on the use of insetting—where emissions reductions occur within the supply chain—creating a more sustainable and innovative framework for production.

Fertilizers play a crucial role in agriculture by providing essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, all of which are necessary for boosting crop yields and ensuring global food security. However, the use of nitrogen fertilizers has significant environmental impacts, contributing an estimated 1.1 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent GHG emissions annually. Nitrous oxide, a particularly potent GHG, accounts for around 60% of these emissions, originating primarily from agricultural fields.

Achim Dobermann, Chief Scientist at IFA, noted that a coordinated, science-based approach is essential for reducing emissions in the fertilizer supply chain. He emphasized that starting with nitrification and urease inhibitors as a first step could lead to a broader sectoral decarbonization program, ultimately connected to carbon finance.

Sijbrand Tieleman, CEO of Proba, added that while fertilizers contribute significantly to emissions in the agri-food sector (approximately 7%), proven technologies like inhibitors can reduce greenhouse gases by up to 50%, depending on regional conditions. He highlighted the need to incentivize adoption at scale through insetting strategies and carbon finance, supporting farmers and enabling companies to report reduced emissions credibly.

The project will be supported by 11 IFA members, who will play an active role in its development and implementation.