Arnott's and Cargill drive eco safe canola production

The Arnott’s Group is a founding partner of Cargill’s SustainConnect program, which aims to enhance the production of sustainable canola oil in Australia. The program equips participating farmers with essential tools, resources and market access, supporting the transition towards sustainable agriculture. Additionally, it opens new revenue streams for Australian growers and caters to rising demand from both domestic and international customers.

Cargill has partnered with Regrow, a carbon measurement business, to measure, report and verify carbon outcomes. Using in-field data, remote sensing, and crop and soil health modelling, the Regrow platform ensures transparency and accurate measurement for growers and Cargill’s customers.

The SustainConnect program is currently available to Australian canola farmers in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Victoria, and Cargill is looking to extend this program in Western Australian in the future.

Collaborations across supply chain partners play a crucial role in achieving sustainability goals and delivering lasting benefits to farming communities. As a responsible food company, The Arnott’s Group recognises the need to protect the land on which they rely by sourcing their ingredients sustainably.

Simon Lowden, Arnott’s Group Chief Transformation Officer, said: “Our collaboration with Cargill is a meaningful step towards creating more resilient and sustainably conscious supply chain in Australia. Key ingredients for our products, including canola oil, play a crucial role in this effort. Our intention is that as the program continues to grow and evolve, it provides a step change for the industry.”

Australian canola growers enrolled in the program can choose from various sustainable practices, including nutrient management interventions, reduced or no-tillage methods, and crop residue retention. These practices not only improve soil health but also contribute to decarbonising the agricultural supply chain.

Ben Fargher, Cargill Environmental Market Lead, APAC, said: “Agriculture holds a unique opportunity to adopt sustainable practices that address the global climate challenge while improving economic prospects for farmers — the backbone of our food system. By implementing changes at the grassroots level of our supply chains, with partners like The Arnott’s Group, we can significantly reduce emissions and enhance soil resilience for future generations.”

Tim Gainsford, a canola farmer from New South Wales, said: “As farmers, we’re passionate about growing food with a lower carbon footprint; however, it’s not always easy to navigate. Cargill’s SustainConnect program gives us a chance to be rewarded for our sustainable practices and knowing that our canola is in demand from iconic brands like Arnott’s makes us even more delighted to be part of this positive change.”

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