Abstract

This IDC TechBrief reviews at a high level the potential, the pitfalls, and the critical factors for success that should be considered when entering this market. Carbon offset programs are an emerging market that directly commodifies on farm data. Data collection around farming practices can be used to prove additionality and support claims of carbon sequestration in soil organic matter and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) or avoidance, which can be monetized through carbon offsets.

"The development of carbon offset markets in agriculture will be a powerful tool for farmers, industry, and environmentalists. Directly commodifying on farm data in this way will encourage greater reporting, highlight the good work farmers are doing in sustainable agriculture, and encourage new data product development while helping the environment, increasing food production and building an economically sustainable future for farmers," says Dr. Aron Cory, research manager for Agriculture with IDC.

Coverage