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HomeBeef‘Reduced emissions and increased farm incomes’ – Greens on Climate Action Plan
Catherina Cunnane
Catherina Cunnanehttps://www.thatsfarming.com/
Catherina Cunnane hails from a sixth-generation drystock and specialised pedigree suckler enterprise in Co. Mayo. She currently holds the positions of editor and general manager at That's Farming, having joined the firm during its start-up phase in 2015.
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‘Reduced emissions and increased farm incomes’ – Greens on Climate Action Plan

The Green Party claims the Climate Action Plan “means reduced emissions and increased incomes”.

The party views the plan as “the most detailed and ambitious” in the state’s history.

The plan sets out a roadmap for Ireland with targets and measures to meet commitments to reduce GHG emissions in the agricultural sector.

It claims the plan sets out a course to build a more resilient agri-food sector and increase the uptake of greenhouse gas efficient farming.

The government confirmed that the agricultural sector will have to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 22-30% by 2030.

Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity, Senator Pippa Hackett, a Green Party member, stated:

“It is time to put climate and biodiversity at the core of everything we do. This plan gives us a blueprint going forward to do that.”

“It contains strong actions to be taken by all government departments so that every sector of society works together, in a joined-up approach, to get us to where we need to be.”

“If we are to protect the model of the Irish family farm, and protect farm incomes, we must genuinely farm for and with nature.”

Key role in climate action 

She said Ireland’s grass-based farming system is a competitive advantage. Hackett stated this makes the country among the most sustainable producers in the world.

“This plan will give farmers certainty after what has been a really challenging, uncertain period for farmers with CAP reform and Brexit.”

“Farmers know the land better than anyone. I believe they are willing and able to play a key role in climate action.”

“As a farmer myself, I am looking forward to embracing the plan and to all other farmers doing so too.”

“In the decade ahead, there is a huge opportunity for these measures to have a transformative impact on our lives and on our communities.”

Measures 

The minister pointed to some of the measures the Climate Action Plan commits to:

  • Using less chemical nitrogen and more targeted use of fertiliser, while maintaining the same level of grass growth;
  • Incorporating multi-species swards and clover.
  • Research into animal feed and improving the genetics of Irish herds to reduce emissions and improve productivity;
  • Incentives to diversify into organic farming, forestry, and energy production.
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