Our Sustainability Program is about helping producers gain market access for the commodities they produce. For example, the EU has certain requirements in place for its canola imports and by certifying that our customers meet these requirements, we are creating more demand and export opportunities for canola out of Canada.

The certification process is quick and easy. We ask that producers fill out a short questionnaire to confirm their sustainable growing practices. Since we established this program, we have found that most Western Canadian growers are utilizing sustainable practices on their farms. The certification process is about verifying what Western Canadian farmers are already doing.  

Worldwide demand for sustainably produced products is growing. Some governments are mandating minimum levels of sustainability produced products. Viterra’s ability to supply sustainably certified Canadian grain allows access to these developing markets. 

End use customers sourcing sustainable ingredients from Viterra need to able to transfer this certification down to their finished products and provide a sustainably labeled and verified product to their consumers. 

Further, certification is good for all crops grown on the farm, not just canola. We are starting to receive more and more inquiries from customers looking for sustainable wheat, pulses and other oilseeds.

No, there are no costs to the producer. This program is about ensuring that producers are certified to meet the EU’s sustainability requirements for canola shipments and able to access this market.  

Land conversion over one hectare (2.47 Acres) after January 1, 2008 which is not replaced excludes the grower from the sustainability program. This includes land converted by previous owners.

Any non-compliant acres added to an existing farm would make it non-compliant and therefore ineligible for this program.

There are no penalties for non-compliance but growers would unfortunately be removed from the program.

There are no special requirements for pesticide shortage. Producers simply need to follow product label recommendations for safe storage.

There is no physical separation of sustainable grain at the facility. The sustainable program reconciles tonnage using a paper credit system for deliveries and exports of grain.

Sloughs that can be farmed when dry are not considered established wetlands. The land conversion clause is intended to protect natural grasslands, designated parklands and wetlands saturated with water. Slough areas that vary from year to year would typically not be considered an issue. We encourage farmers to contact our customer account representatives for more information on whether their land meets the ISCC’s program requirements.

The main benefit is generating additional export demand for Canadian grain, which is supportive of prices. Sustainable certified grain may provide delivery and pricing opportunities at the farm-gate level.

Since we launched the program in 2013, thousands of farms across Western Canada have become certified under Viterra’s sustainability program.

Please contact your local Viterra Representative today to learn more about this program and how you can get your farm ready to take advantage of these opportunities.