b'CHIP SHILLINGMANAGER, ISSUES MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITYchip.shilling@basf.comagriculture.basf.us/crop-protection/use-areas/seed-treatment.htmlThe Ultimate Balancing Act THERE ARE VERYfew topics that cross over into multipleWell, when BASF develops new productsfor example, industries and that affect businesses and people alike; but thenew seed treatment active ingredientsthese products must more we learn more about climate change and the ways inmeet sustainability criteria. Its not enough just to meet high which our daily habits impact our environment, the world sus- performance in our eyes. We ensure that all of our new products tainability seems to come up more and more often.contribute to finding the right balance.But what does sustainability actually mean?Sustainability is a deeply personal idea, and my definition of sustainability is not likely to match that of my co-workers, the grower down the street or even my familys definition. Why? Because there is no set definition accepted by everyone.At BASF, sustainability means finding the right balance toRegardless of your definition of sustainability, help farmers be successful in the face of climate change, andremember that it is a very broad topic that can be challenges in both society and the economy. Essentially, by help-ing farmers find the right balance, were able to help them ensurepainted with many different strokes. In the end, its a better yield. But whats more: this better yield doesnt comeimperative that you find what works for you and at a price. With the right balance, better yield can be achieved without negatively impacting the environment around us. provides you with the right balance. Sustainable agriculture is going to play a key role in helping to Chip Shillingprotect not only our environment, but also the people who work on our land and ultimately consume their productsin other words, everyone.As the worlds population continues to grow, farmers are going to be asked to do more with less land and as a result, agriculture is going to need to play a pivotal role in addressingWhether through precision spraying that allows for a more sustainable production. We must provide the industry with theefficient and environmentally friendly method of applying crop resources they need to continue producing, while also mitigatingprotection products or providing the proper seed treatment the risk of agricultures impact on the environment. tools to ensure a better yield potential, we are taking the steps Through BASFs recently announced global sustainabilitynecessary toward a more sustainable future.goals, we are committing to four key pillars aimed to help farm- Regardless of your definition of sustainability, remember that ers reduce their carbon footprint that include climate smartit is a very broad topic that can be painted with many different farming, sustainable solutions, digital farming, and smart stew- strokes. In the end, its imperative that you find what works for ardship. How do we connect those goals to our products? you and provides you with the right balance. FEBRUARY 2021SEEDWORLD.COM /33'