PORK INDUSTRY PUBLISHES SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT INDICATORS: A first for
agriculture in Quebec

SAINT-URBAIN, QC, Oct. 28 /CNW Telbec/ - The Fédération des producteurs de porcs du Québec (FPPQ) is proud to announce the release of its own sustainable development indicators for pork production today, a first for agriculture in Quebec. At a news conference held at the J.P.L. Inc. farm, FPPQ president Jean-Guy Vincent unveiled a list of 13 indicators that apply to pork production: 3 environmental, 3 social and 7 economic indicators that will help measure the progress and performance of pork producers in terms of sustainable development in their respective operations.

"Over the years, pork producers have become aware of the need to learn more about better practices they can adopt on the farm," said FPPQ president Jean-Guy Vincent. "Despite the tough economic conditions, Quebec's pork producers are still just as concerned personally as the rest of society about the environment, animal welfare, the compatibility and profitability of their firms and the transfer to future generations."

The FPPQ approach is based on a firm conviction that the time is ripe for action, and that its plan must reconsider three equally crucial priorities: environmental integrity, social fairness and economic efficiency. The ultimate goal of this approach is to meet the needs of present-day society while protecting the well-being and the potential for a better quality of life of future generations. The new indicators are effective communications and management tools for strategic planning and adaptation to change, and also reflect the values of pork producers.

Development of these indicators is the result of extensive discussions dating back to 2008. In an initial preparatory stage, the number of existing sustainable development indicators was compiled for the agricultural and forestry sectors worldwide. Once this inventory was completed, a technical committee representing the pork sector was created. It was made up of 30 organizations, including environmental groups (for watersheds), provincial ministries (MAPAQ, MDDEP, etc.), municipal organizations, organizations that partner with the pork sector (La Coop fédérée, UPA, etc.) and members representing Quebec's pork producers. After many meetings, a list of 13 sustainable development indicators applicable to Quebec's pork industry was established by the FPPQ.

Social indicators (3) 

• Proper animal care practices and standards
• Public perception of the pork industry
• Pork producers' social involvement in their communities

Economic indicators (7)

• Changes in added value
• Changes in net agricultural income (before depreciation)
• Changes in pork consumption
• Changes in equity ratio
• Proportion of market-derived income
• Economic activity (spinoffs) generated by pork production in Quebec
• Changes in research and development allocations

Environmental indicators (3)

• Recognition of best agro-environmental and farm health practices in pork production
• Changes in phosphorus discharge
• Greenhouse gases and ammonia emissions

These indicators will make it possible to measure the progress and performance of pork producers in terms of sustainable development in their operations over the next few years. The indicators clearly reflect the willingness of producers to demonstrate proper farm practices and to improve these as needed.

About the FPPQ
The Fédération des producteurs de porcs du Québec represents the interests of 3900 pork producers in 12 regional syndicates. Quebec's pork producers raise over 7.5 million hogs per year and generate economic benefits amounting to over $1.5 billion across the province. The pork industry in Quebec employs some 24,000 people and exports 60% of its products to more than 75 countries. www.leporcduquebec.com

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