New Zealand proposes forcing farmers to pay for emissions from 10 million cows and 26 million sheep

New Zealand has only 5 million people but owns 10 million cows and 26 million sheep – Photo: The Guardian

The Ministry of Environment said the above proposal would make New Zealanda major exporter of agricultural products to the world, became the first country to force farmers to pay for emissions from livestock operations.

New Zealand has only 5 million people but has 10 million cows and 26 million sheep.

Nearly half of all greenhouse gas emissions come from livestock, mainly methane, but agricultural emissions have historically not been included in the country’s emissions trading scheme.

This fact caused the government to face many criticisms related to its commitment to prevent global warming.

Under the draft plan, farmers will have to pay for their emissions from 2025. The gases from the farm will be priced differently according to the life of the gas, through a unique method to calculate total emissions.

The plan also includes incentives for farmers to reduce emissions through the use of food additives in animal diets to reduce methane emissions, while growing crops on the farm can also help. as a way to reduce emissions.

Proceeds from the new mechanism will be invested in research, development and consulting services for farmers.

Climate Change Secretary James Shaw said: “Clearly we need to cut the amount of methane released into the atmosphere and an effective emissions pricing system will play a key role in achieving this.” .

For his part, Michael Ahie, head of He Waka Eke Noa, the primary sector partner group, said: “Our recommendations aim to create conditions for the livestock and textile industries to develop sustainably for many years. generations to come, while also making a relative contribution to the nation’s climate commitment efforts”.

A final decision on the proposal will be made in December.