By Andi Anderson
A team of Japanese media recently embarked on a journey through Illinois, delving into the state's agriculture and its impact on greenhouse gas emissions. Partnering with IL Corn and the U.S. Grains Council, the group of 12 members traversed from Chicago to St. Louis, with stops in McLean, Piatt County, and more.
Their focus? Understanding the carbon intensity (CI) score of U.S. corn and corn co-products, aiming to apply their findings to lower greenhouse gas emissions from transportation fuels in Japan. With the recent approval of U.S. corn-based ethanol imports, Japan seeks to achieve its emissions reduction goals with renewable fuels.
Visits to key locations like Marquis Energy in Hennepin, IL, and the IL Corn home office in Bloomington provided insights into corn production, conservation practices, and their impact on CI scores. A farm visit in Piatt County offered firsthand experience of impactful conservation practices, guided by farmer Jim Reed, also a Director for the U.S. Grains Council.
Exploring ethanol plants like ADM in Decatur and Green Plains in Madison, IL, showcased ethanol production and export efforts, emphasizing investments in facilities to lower CI scores. Tommy Hamamoto, Japan director for the U.S. Grains Council, highlighted the trip's objective: to assure Japan of the ample corn supply for food, feed, and fuel needs.
Japan's significant role as the second-largest foreign market for U.S. corn underscores the importance of these endeavors. With ambitious targets for ethanol usage and plans for sustainable aviation fuel adoption, Japan's commitment to reducing carbon emissions presents opportunities for U.S. corn and corn co-products.
Such trade missions, facilitated by IL Corn and farmer volunteers, serve to foster relationships and deepen understanding among international partners. By showcasing Illinois agriculture's contributions to emissions reduction, these efforts aim to bolster international sales of U.S. corn and its derivatives.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dale-fornoff
Categories: Illinois, Crops, Corn, Government & Policy