23 October 2022.
AgForce is calling for a seat at the table as Australia signs up to the Global Methane Pledge.
As plans to meet the global 30 per cent cut in methane emissions by 2030 get underway, CEO Michael Guerin urged the Federal Government to involve agriculture from the start.
“In the spirit of open and honest conversation, agriculture needs to be a part of any discussions from the get-go,” he said.
“We have already had several assurances to guarantee that signing the pledge will not negatively impact farmers.
“These include: no new taxes or regulation on livestock methane; recognition of agriculture’s existing plans and progress; and ongoing support to develop technology-led solutions.
“Now that a formal commitment has been made, it’s important these assurances are upheld.
“We do not want to see farmers protesting in the streets, because they were not adequately consulted prior to the creation of regulations that challenge their very existence.”
Farmers are already leading the way on climate action, with ambitious targets and massive investment in new technologies and practices.
Australia’s farm sector has already reduced its emissions by 53 per cent on 2005 levels. And our red meat sector is planning to be carbon neutral by 2030.
Mr Guerin said AgForce had been calling for recognition for farmers’ efforts on climate for more than a decade.
“The unwillingness by many to recognise the work agriculture in Queensland and Australia has already done to reduce its carbon footprint, in fact to largely reduce the country’s carbon footprint, is disappointing,” he said.
“Industries that are forward thinking and solutions focused should be spared further regulation.
“Australians should be proud of the work underway to improve the sustainability of our farm sector.
“By placing AgForce and industry at the heart of deliberations on future climate discussions, we stand a much better chance of making sure our voice is heard and ensuring that we are not unfairly targeted.”
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Media comment: AgForce CEO Michael Guerin 0488 002 092