More than 80% of New Zealand’s methane emissions are produced by animal stomachs. Methane is a potent global warming accelerator, hence its reduction helps to reduce global warming.
The idea would make the nation the first to charge farmers for the greenhouse gases their livestock emit.
Only 5 million humans reside in New Zealand, but there are approximately 10 million cattle and 26 million sheep.
Even though approximately half of its total greenhouse gas emissions stem from agriculture, primarily in the form of methane.
Previously, agricultural emissions were exempted from the country’s carbon trading plan, drawing criticism of the government’s efforts to limit global warming.
The designers of a cow face mask that neutralizes burp emissions have won a £50,000 Prince Charles prize.
Methane has more than 80 times the warming potential of carbon dioxide during the first 20 years in the atmosphere – so eliminating it is a powerful strategy to halt warming in the short run.
More than 85 percent of New Zealand’s total methane emissions originate from two agricultural sources: animal stomachs and animal manure, with animal stomachs accounting for 97 percent of this total.
The majority (95 percent) of cows’ methane is breathed, while just 5 percent is released by flatulence.
By 2025, farmers will be required to pay for their gas emissions under the proposed plan drafted by the government and farming organizations.
Climate Change Minister James Shaw stated, “There is no question that we must reduce the quantity of methane we release into the atmosphere, and an efficient emissions pricing mechanism for agriculture will play a crucial role in achieving this goal.”
The idea provides incentives for farmers who cut emissions by using feed additives, while on-farm forestry can be utilized to offset emissions. The scheme’s revenue will be invested in agricultural research, development, and consultancy services.
Michael Ahie, chair of the primary sector collaboration He Waka Eke Noa, remarked, “Our recommendations enable sustainable food and fiber production for future generations while contributing to our nation’s climate responsibilities.”
According to Susan Kilsby, an agricultural economist at ANZ Bank, the idea might pose the worst regulatory disruption to agriculture since the 1980s abolition of agricultural subsidies.
This program examines how global warming is altering our landscape and discusses potential solutions to the dilemma.
