Unlocking the Potential of Natural Capital in the Australian Grain Sector
GrainGrowers has released a new report: Unlocking the Potential of Natural Capital in the Australian Grain Sector
The report provides an overview of the current state of natural capital markets and accounting, future trends, and recommendations for the grain sector to overcome key barriers.
The report highlights that while many growers are already actively managing natural capital on their farms, there is currently limited external recognition of this work.
Addressing the knowledge and awareness gaps across the agricultural value chain, as well as the lack of clear market signals and reducing the high administrative costs of reporting, will be essential in driving adoption of natural capital practices.
Report highlights
Current state of play
The report examines the current state of play in the Australian grain sector, including an overview of biodiversity markets and how growers are managing and reporting on natural capital assets.
Future trends
The report explores the key trends shaping the future of natural capital, including international policy drivers, the development of international reporting and standards, and the domestic policy and industry drivers influencing adoption.
Key challenges
The report identifies three key challenges to wider adoption of natural capital practices, including a lack of market signals and incentives, the high administrative cost of reporting, and the need to address knowledge and awareness gaps within the agricultural value chain.
Recommendations
The report recommends strengthening market incentives through enhanced supply chain collaboration, reducing reporting costs through standardised frameworks and digital tools, and investing in RD&E to further build the business case for sustainable practices while addressing barriers to grower participation.