New Study Shows U.S. Soybean’s Carbon Footprint Decreasing

A study commissioned by the United Soybean Board (USB) and National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) revealed a significant reduction in the global warming potential (GWP) profile for the U.S. soybean industry (including whole soybeans, soybean meal, and soy oil) in 2021, compared to findings from 2015 and 2010. 

Global output has increased from less than 50 million tons in 1970 to more than 350 million tons in 2020 with U.S. soybean production now contributing $124 billion to the U.S. economy, making the country one of the largest producers and second-largest exporter in the world. 

The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study, conducted by Sustainable Solutions Corporation, evaluated environmental impact drivers such as soybean cultivation, harvesting, inputs, transportation, and energy usage in processing. It analyzed data from 454 farms across 16 states for 2020 and 2021, and operations data from 52 soybean processors and 27 soy oil refiners across 18 states for 2021, concluding that the carbon footprint for U.S. soybeans fell by 19 percent - a 6 percent decrease for soybean meal, 22 percent decrease for U.S. crude soy oil, and an 8 percent decrease for U.S. refined soy oil. 

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