By Andi Anderson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) marked the 2nd Annual National Biobased Products Day with a celebration of achievements in sustainability and rural prosperity. Theresa Greenfield, USDA Rural Development State Director in Iowa, highlighted the BioPreferred program's growth and its impact on job opportunities in the state. The event took place at Landus, a farmer-owned cooperative headquartered in Des Moines.
Director Greenfield, accompanied by key figures such as Matt Russell, Farm Service Agency State Executive Director in Iowa, Grant Menke, Deputy Secretary of Agriculture for Iowa, and Mark Laurenzo from the Iowa Economic Development Authority, emphasized the commitment of the Administration to support biobased industries and technological innovations. These industries play a vital role in creating new markets for farm commodities and adding value to Iowa's economy.
USDA released two significant reports on the occasion. The "Economic Impact Analysis of the U.S. Biobased Products Industry: 2023 Update" showcased nationwide growth in the biobased products industry despite challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Another report, the "Hemp Research Needs Roadmap," identified key research needs in the hemp industry, aligning with the administration's focus on advancing biotechnology and biomanufacturing for a sustainable bioeconomy.
The USDA BioPreferred® Program label, promoting environmentally friendly products, encourages consumers to choose items derived from renewable agricultural, marine, and forestry materials. The label signifies products that align with sustainability goals, contributing to economic prosperity for farmers and fostering a healthier planet.
USDA Rural Development continues to provide loans and grants to enhance economic opportunities, job creation, and overall quality of life in rural areas.
Photo Credit: USDA
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy