The need for standardized environmental footprint data

In response to rising demand driven by policy changes and industry pressures, the U.S. agrifood sector faces a growing need for standardized LCA calculations and reliable footprint data. Establishing a robust scientific framework is essential to set clear methodologies, standards, and data requirements that ensure accuracy and consistency across the industry. However, it is equally important to balance these scientific standards with practical, fair applications for industry players. Detailed emission models are crucial for pinpointing and prioritizing the most effective mitigation strategies. 

Janjoris van Diepen; Footprint Director- North America

We see an urgent need to establish a level playing field for LCA methodology and accurate footprint data in the U.S. agrifood sector. This is why we want to build a coalition to develop a U.S.-specific Smart Footprint Database, designed to support sustainable progress across the industry.

Janjoris van Diepen - Footprint Director North America

Smart Footprint Database: Driving agri-food sustainability in the U.S. 

  • Access and independent oversight

    The U.S. agri-food footprint methodology and database will be accessible to all, managed by an independent not-for-profit organization, ensuring broad usability and credibility. 

  • Transparency and continuous improvement

    Built with a commitment to transparency, the methodology and data will be continually updated to incorporate new scientific insights and adapt to evolving market needs. 

  • Footprint data built on supply chain models

    The footprint data should be built up by transparent supply chain models to facilitate intervention assessments 

  • Accessibility

    The database will be designed for easy access and complemented by user-friendly footprint tooling. 

  • Sustainable governance model

    The not-for-profit governing body will implement a sustainable business model, with funding from both data providers and users to support ongoing quality assurance, development, and expansion. 

  • Inclusive development process

    Engagement from all key stakeholders, including the scientific community and industry partners, will drive the collaborative development of both the methodology and data, ensuring relevance and reliability across the sector. 

Scientific foundation and Aim for Climate Innovation Sprint Partner 

To build a robust scientific foundation for the Smart Footprint Database and its underlying methodology, we are honored to have the support of Blonk’s research fellows: Dr. Greg Thoma, Director of Agricultural Modeling and Life Cycle Assessment at Colorado State University, and Dr. Marty Matlock, Professor in the Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department at the University of Arkansas. Their expertise ensures that the database’s methodology remains scientifically rigorous and impactful. Additionally, the initiative has been selected as an Innovation Sprint Partner by Aim for Climate, reinforcing its importance in advancing climate-smart practices across agriculture and the food system. 

Dr. Greg Thoma

Director of Agricultural Modeling and Life Cycle Assessment at Colorado State University

Dr. Marty Matlock

Professor in the Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department at the University of Arkansas

More information

Get in touch

Janjoris van Diepen
Footprint Director North America

Do you have questions about the development of a U.S.-specific footprint database? Get in touch with Janjoris van Diepen, Footprint Director North America.