Monsanto's sustainability commitment includes cutting greenhouse gas emissions 22% by 2020

Monsanto Co. plans to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in its crop protection business 22 percent by 2020, the company announced today in its 2014 Sustainability Report.

Since announcing its first sustainability commitment framework in 2008, the company has advanced its three sustainability principles: improving the lives of farmers, workers and communities; producing enough food to make a balanced meal accessible to all; and conserving Earth’s resources and preserving the natural environment.

Monsanto VP of Corporate Engagement Jesus Madrazo said members of the food value chain have a tremendous responsibility and opportunity to advance sustainable agriculture.

“At Monsanto, we are proud to share our sustainability progress in this report and prepare for the next phase of our journey,” Madrazo said.

According to the sustainability report, titled “From the Inside Out,” Monsanto is using its expertise to help farmers produce better harvests with traditional plant breeding, biotechnology, data science and agricultural biologicals. The company has committed to increase irrigation water application efficiency in its global seed production process 25 percent by 2020.