January 11, 2021
Manitoba Canola Growers Association (MCGA) is pleased with the Manitoba Government’s announcement in late December approving a phased-in increase to the biodiesel requirement. Effective Jan. 1, 2021 the mandate increased to 3.5 per cent from two per cent, and it will rise again to five per cent on Jan. 1, 2022.
This progressive policy change is a win-win-win for Manitoba’s environment, for our economy and for our farmers. It is an effective way to reduce emissions from transportation fuel while diversifying markets for canola and increasing economic opportunities and demand right here at home.
“Increasing the demand for biodiesel in Manitoba is a target our board has been working on for the better part of a decade,” says Delaney Ross Burtnack, MCGA Executive Director. “We have long recognized that this represents opportunity for canola farmers and Manitoba’s economy through the expansion of a stable, domestic market, while meeting emission reduction goals.”
This policy sends a strong market signal for more domestic canola processing and investment in renewable fuel production here in Manitoba. “Canola is an excellent feedstock for biodiesel,” continues Ross Burtnack, “and we anticipate that this change will generate more opportunity for investment in this sector. Continuing Manitoba’s clean fuel leadership is a step in the right direction for our environment, our economy and our farmers.”
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The Manitoba Canola Growers Association (MCGA) represents approximately 7,500 farmers in Manitoba that grow canola. Manitoba Canola Growers are funded by growers. Every dollar spent is leveraged at the local, national, and international levels on research and marketing. MCGA is committed to maximizing net income for canola farmers through sustainable production. For more information, visit www.canolagrowers.com or follow us on Twitter @CanolaGrowers.
Media Contact:
Leanne Campbell – Communications Manager
Manitoba Canola Growers
204-479-1115