A recent announcement from Walmart may prove to be an advantage to users of farm equipment who take part in sustainable agriculture.
The retail giant said it would provide small- and medium-sized farm operations an outlet for their products. Its goal is to sell $1 billion worth of food from 1 million of these producers by the close of 2015.
Walmart also said it will provide training to these farmers, including instruction dealing with crop selection and production practices. Half of those who will receive this education are women, the company said.
"Through sustainable agriculture, Walmart is uniquely positioned to make a positive difference in food production - for farmers, communities and customers," said Mike Duke, company president and chief executive officer.
The company's efforts will also benefit U.S. producers, as Walmart plans to double its sales of locally grown produce. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has had a similar goal in trying to encourage consumers to partake in the crops grown in their area.
The USDA's Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food initiative attempts to connect consumers in a region with the farmers and ranchers that work its land.
Walmart announces plans to support sustainable agriculture
A series of company directives from Walmart are aimed at supporting sustainable agriculture around the world and in the U.S.