Washington, D.C. (March 17, 2025) – Today, the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) announced the results of a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) showing significant progress in the sustainability of U.S. wheat production. The study highlights substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, water usage, land use, and soil erosion on a per-bushel basis over the past several decades.
In collaboration with the National Wheat Foundation (NWF) and U.S. Wheat Associates (USW), NAWG commissioned the LCA to assess the environmental impact of wheat production across the U.S. This study was conducted by expert researchers from Texas A&M University AgriLife Research and Colorado State University’s AgNext Institute, the study provides a detailed overview of environmental improvements in wheat farming practices from 1978 to 2018.
The LCA analyzed the environmental footprint of wheat production from raw inputs through to the delivery of grain, with a focus on local farming practices. Data was collected from 110 archetype farms spanning the major wheat-growing regions in the U.S., offering a broad and representative view of industry trends.
Key findings include:
· Greenhouse gas emissions are down 33% due to more prescriptive use of fertilizers and precision input application.
· Energy use is down 57% thanks to improved fuel efficiency and reduced tillage.
· Water use is down 46% with higher yield per water unit and reduced irrigation.
· Land use is down 45% through multiple production improvements and lower planted area.
· Soil erosion is down 60% due to reduced tillage and other production improvements.
“Previous analyses have suggested reductions in wheat’s environmental impact, but a detailed study was needed to fully provide a more comprehensive understanding of the per bushel trends,” said Chandler Goule, CEO of NAWG. “These findings will be crucial in educating the administration, lawmakers, and key stakeholders on the environmental benefits of wheat and to help inform future policy initiatives.”
“Wheat growers take great pride in being stewards of the environment,”said Pat Clements, NAWG President. “This study helps the wheat industry set a baseline to track our ongoing progress across these key indicators and will empower growers to help tell the story about how sustainability in wheat production has improved over a forty-year timeframe.
For more information on the LCA visit www.wheatworld.org.
