Production & Sustainability

America’s agricultural producers and exporters are passionate about providing safe, wholesome, and affordable food and farm products to consumers around the world. Embracing science and innovation makes it possible for them to help meet global demand, keep food affordable, and ensure that it is produced in the ways that are most sustainable – both environmentally and economically. At the links below and to the right, you can learn more about American agriculture’s commitment to quality, safety, environmental stewardship, science, and sustainability – and about the U.S. infrastructure that supports this.

In addition, FAS's international offices track and report on other countries' policies, initiatives, and activities that relate to areas such as climate, sustainability, and technology adoption. Get the latest updates in the Data and Analysis section below.

Animal and Plant Health

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/

Biotechnology

https://www.usda.gov/topics/biotechnology

Climate

https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/climate

Conservation

https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/

https://www.farmers.gov/conserve

Farm Practices and Management

https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/farm-practices-management/

Food Safety

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/

https://www.fda.gov/food

Grading and Standards

https://www.ams.usda.gov/grades-standards

Organics

Trade - https://www.fas.usda.gov/commodities/organic-products

Production and Certification - https://www.usda.gov/topics/organic

Sustainability

https://www.usda.gov/oce/sustainability

https://thesustainabilityalliance.us/

Data and Analysis

The report details the Department of Agriculture's regulation on the criteria, methods, and conditions for certifying genome-edited plants. This regulation enables Thailand to access new plant varieties, enhancing the country’s ability to address food security and climate change challenges.
Thailand has finally established legislation on the certification of organisms developed using genome editing technology for agricultural use. The country aims to better align with international standards and practices and enhance its competitiveness of agricultural products in the global economy.
On August 5, 2024, the National Health Commission (NHC) announced the approval of eight new food materials and additives, of which one product is derived from Genetically Modified Microorganisms (GMMs). This report provides a summary of the newly approved food materials and additives listed in the announcement.

News and Features

The UN General Assembly has declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, thanks to U.S. government efforts that were spearheaded by USDA and garnered more than 100 co-sponsors.
As the U.S. Department of Agriculture celebrates Earth Day 2024 with communities across the nation and around the globe, we have an exciting opportunity to highlight the activities, tools and resources of the USDA International Climate Hub.
USDA will host the second in-person Stakeholder Session of the US-EU Collaboration Platform on Agriculture April 8-9 in Washington, D.C.