The famous cartoon character Popeye is no stranger to the power of produce. The world’s largest retailer isn’t either. In an announcement made today about new commitments to sustainable agriculture, Walmart not only declared its intentions, but also stated it recognizes the power it has to incentivize social and environmental changes through commerce. In effect, Walmart’s announcement provides a huge shot in the arm for sustainable agriculture.

What did the company say that’s so important? The company’s announcement outlines how it claims it will help small and medium-sized farmers and reduce the environmental impact of farming. First let’s look at just some of the commitments being made. By the end of 2015, Walmart will:

* Sell $1 billion in food sources from 1 million small & medium farmers
* Provide training to 1 million farmers and workers in sustainable farming practices (the company expects half of those trained to be women)
* Double its sale of locally sourced produce (in the U.S.)

Moreover, due to its footprint, the company has tremendous influence over a number of companies, farmers, and eventually consumers. To leverage its power, Walmart will ask its […]