Beef + Lamb New Zealand and DairyNZ are still working through the details of the government’s second draft emissions reduction plan.
Chair Kate Acland said while they are still digesting the details, her initial reaction is that it contains both positive and concerning elements.
The primary concern is that there are a number of mentions of a definite price on agricultural emissions by 2030.
“There has been a significant reduction in sheep and beef emissions in the last couple of years as a result of afforestation,” Acland said.
“From a sheep and beef sector perspective there is no need for a price if reductions are already happening.
“The consultation documents do focus on mitigation technologies, and seem to support the need for greater recognition of on-farm sequestration – however there remains a lot of detail to work through with our farmers.”
Recent emissions reductions have been driven by afforestation and Acland sees it as a positive that the document hints at limits on whole-farm conversions to forestry.
“There is absolutely a place for forestry; our concern has always been about the scale and pace of whole sheep and beef farms being sold to convert into forestry for carbon credits.
“We need to see the detail, but are encouraged by the government’s signal in the consultation document that they intend to put limits on whole farm conversions being entered into the ETS [Emissions Trading Scheme].
“We are also hugely supportive of the integration of trees within farms, which could go a long way towards meeting New Zealand’s climate objectives.”
Meanwhile DairyNZ said: “DairyNZ is working through the details and intends to make a submission. It welcomes the emphasis on technology given the important role it will play in supporting farmers to reduce emissions while maintaining profitability.”
