'These changes are good for the environment but importantly make sense economically.' Other measures include improving the genetics of our herds to reduce emissions and improve productivity. 'There will be a reduction in chemical nitrogen and more targeted use of fertiliser, while maintaining our position as global leader in grass growth through multi-species swards. They will be backed by an even greater emphasis on science and robust research. 'Farmers know the land better than anyone and are best placed to meet our climate ambitions. The targets for agriculture will help make Irish farms more carbon-efficient and build a more resilient agri-food sector. 'Climate Action Plan 2021 places farmers at the very centre. 'This plan will give Irish agriculture a viable future, producing world-class food with a lower carbon footprint, thanks to a science-based approach that also improves biodiversity and protects nature,' a spokesperson said. The Taoiseach said the Government said it would explore the development of a carbon farming model and plans to introduce a small-scale electric generation scheme for farmers to generate their own electricity and sell the surplus back to the grid adding that farmers would be incentivised to make the proposed changes. The Government hopes to achieve the reduction through a combination of low-carbon farming practices, such as encouraging organics and reduced fertiliser use.Įarlier finishing for beef cattle, genetic selection for low-emission animals, reduced crude protein content rations, and increased use of clover and multi-species swards are among other key measures proposed.Ī 'significant' rewetting of peatlands, increased tree planting, more efficient grassland management and a target to increase the area under cover crops to 50,000 hectares by 2030 will also boost the rate of carbon sequestration.

Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry: 37-58%.

Road to 56 focus trees