Empowering Farmers: Mars Invests $27M to Help Farmers Fight Climate Change

Mars, Incorporated is making a bold move toward sustainability. The company is investing $27 million in its Farmer Forward Program. This initiative will help dairy farmers transition to climate-smart agricultural practices.

The five-year program focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It provides farmers with new tools and technology to make their work more sustainable.

Financial incentives will also be available to encourage participation.

This program will support around 2,000 farmers and give them access to innovative agricultural methods. Additionally, about 165 farmers will earn an average of $15,000 annually to meet sustainability goals.

Meet Jim, whose family has been farming rice in the US for the last 50 years. It means he’s part of the workforce that produces food for 3.5 billion people around the world – a workforce that has a front row seat to the effects of climate change. #TomorrowStartsToday pic.twitter.com/LEPtedyjvv

— Mars, Incorporated (@MarsGlobal) September 21, 2022

The company aims to cut over 150,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, which is equivalent to removing more than 380 million miles of gasoline-powered vehicle emissions.

Amanda Davies, a leader at Mars Snacking, emphasized the importance of supporting farmers. She highlighted that they play a key role in advancing climate-smart agriculture.

The Farmer Forward Program is part of a larger initiative. Mars launched the Moo’ving Dairy Forward Sustainable Dairy Plan in May 2024. This broader plan includes a $47 million commitment over three years.

The Moo’ving Dairy Forward plan aims to cut dairy-related emissions in half by 2030. It also focuses on enteric methane reduction and sustainable feed production.

Partnering with FrieslandCampina, Mars is working toward innovative on-farm solutions.

Mars is also pushing for broader sustainability efforts beyond dairy. In October 2024, the company announced new regenerative agriculture partnerships focusing on wheat, corn, and rice crops.

The goal is to transition 150,000 acres in North America to regenerative practices. This shift will enhance soil health, improve water quality, and boost biodiversity.

Mars is collaborating with major agricultural companies to achieve these targets.

The company understands that farmers need both knowledge and financial support. Simply encouraging sustainable practices is not enough. Mars is ensuring that farmers have the means to implement meaningful change.

Regenerative agriculture practices can offer long-term benefits. They help maintain land productivity while reducing environmental impact.

Many farmers are eager to adopt these practices but lack the resources.

Mars’ partnerships with companies like ADM and The Andersons, Inc. will provide farmers with essential tools. These collaborations create opportunities for farmers to improve their sustainability.

Additionally, farmers will receive financial incentives to make the transition easier.

The Farmer Forward Program represents a shift in how large corporations approach sustainability. Instead of only making internal changes, Mars is investing in its supply chain, which helps ensure that sustainability efforts have a more significant impact.

Mars is tackling emissions at multiple levels by focusing on dairy and regenerative agriculture. It also empowers farmers to make a difference in their communities.

Many companies are now taking action to address greenhouse gas emissions. However, few have invested as heavily in on-the-ground solutions as Mars has.

Climate change is a growing concern for industries worldwide. Businesses must adapt to more sustainable methods, and programs like Farmer Forward help push the industry toward necessary change.

Mars’ investment sets an example for other corporations. It shows that businesses can support farmers while meeting environmental goals.

Sustainability efforts require collaboration between governments, corporations, and farmers. Mars understands that collective action is necessary to make a lasting impact.

By 2030, Mars aims to see measurable improvements in emissions reductions. The company will track progress and adjust strategies as needed.

Mars is not stopping with dairy and crop-based sustainability efforts. The company is looking for new ways to improve its entire supply chain.

Future investments may focus on water conservation, renewable energy, and biodiversity.

Consumers are also driving sustainability. Many people are now choosing brands that prioritize the environment, and companies like Mars are responding to this demand by committing to responsible practices.

The Farmer Forward Program is just one step in a more extensive sustainability journey. The company is proving that large-scale change is possible with the right investments.

Mars’ approach is ambitious and practical. It balances environmental impact with economic incentives, ensuring sustainability remains achievable for farmers and businesses.

As the world faces increasing climate challenges, companies must take action. Mars is leading by example. Its investments in sustainability could inspire other businesses to follow suit.

The next few years will be crucial for achieving these goals. The Farmer Forward Program’s results will offer insights into the future of climate-smart agriculture.

If successful, they could serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives worldwide.

With continued investment, Mars is helping to build a more sustainable future for agriculture and beyond.