IFA Benchmarks
IFA’s Sustainability Benchmarks
The International Fertilizer Association (IFA) is committed to supporting the industry in achieving operational excellence and sustainable growth.
Since 2002, IFA’s comprehensive benchmarking initiatives empower companies to measure, compare, and improve their performance in critical areas of safety, environmental sustainability, and energy efficiency.
100 percent voluntary, 100 percent confidential, 100 percent accessible: IFA offers all members three benchmarks to measure their progress in SHE (Safety, Health and Environment) management.
These benchmarks are:
- Employee Safety Benchmark (Annual) The Employee Safety benchmark which measures safety performance, is essential for fostering a safe workplace and achieving operational excellence in metrics such as in LTIR (Lost-Time Injury Rate) and TRI (Total Recordable Injuries).
- Environmental Performance Benchmark (Biennial) IFA’s Environmental Performance Benchmark has been a cornerstone tool for fertilizer producers striving to minimize their environmental footprint, as it covers approximately 50 emission parameters across nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and complex fertilizers.
- Energy Efficiency & CO2 Emissions Benchmark (Triennial) The Energy Efficiency & CO2 Emissions benchmark specifically targets ammonia producers, its sustainable production and sets the global standard for progress.
The Employee Safety Performance Benchmark.
The Energy Efficiency & CO2 Emissions Benchmark.
IFA Environmental Performance Benchmark.
Why it matters to participate in these benchmarks:
- Track annual progress for continuous improvement.
- Compare performance to the global industry’s leading safety performers.
Develop tailored key performance indicators. - Identify actionable improvements to reduce emissions.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of safety management systems.
- Improving energy efficiency reduces greenhouse gas emissions and production costs.
In 2024, IFA celebrated the Year of the Benchmark by conducting all three benchmarking programs—Safety, Environmental Performance, and Energy Efficiency—simultaneously for the first time since 2018.
Join a collective effort to elevate safety, health, and environmental standards across the industry while benchmarking your company’s performance against global leaders. Gain recognition as an Industry Stewardship Champion by participating in all benchmarks and holding an IFA Protect & Sustain certification (or its equivalent Responsible Care, OHSAS or ISO).
Participating in IFA’s benchmarks is more than just measuring performance—it’s about driving meaningful progress for your company and the global fertilizer industry.
For more information or to get involved, contact Alexandra Dorison at adorison@fertilizer.org
