China labels farm produce with carbon footprints for greener cultivation

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🗞️ Driving the news: China has introduced carbon footprint labels for agricultural products, starting with locally grown durians in Hainan Province
These labels aim to inform consumers about the climate impact of their purchases and encourage greener farming practices

🔭 The context: The carbon footprint for one kilogram of durian is approximately two kilograms of CO2, highlighting the environmental impact of cultivation, irrigation, and transportation
Researchers are working on methods like biomass charcoal application to enhance soil quality and reduce emissions by over 30%

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: This initiative is part of China's broader efforts to promote low-carbon development in agriculture, which is crucial as the country is one of the world's largest agricultural producers
Reducing emissions in this sector can significantly contribute to global climate goals

⏭️ What's next: China plans to expand carbon footprint labeling to other agricultural products, including Aiyuan oranges and tea
The initiative supports a shift towards sustainable farming practices, aiming for zero-carbon cultivation in the future

💬 One quote: “Zero-carbon cultivation involves measures such as using organic fertilizers and practicing circular agriculture to sequester carbon in the soil.” — Zhang Jibing, Nanjing Certification Center

📈 One stat: Over 30 companies across nine provinces have been awarded certificates for zero-carbon agricultural products

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