Ireland plans to cut agricultural emissions by 25%

Environment |

Published on 08/29/2022 at 13:30

Ireland’s governing coalition agreed to a climate plan at the end of July that will reduce the country’s greenhouse gas emissions by 51% compared to 2018 levels, including a 25% reduction target for the sector, including agriculture (-75% for electricity, -50% for transport, -45% for buildings, etc.).

LHis discussions of agriculture were particularly complex. But Dublin is promising “generous financial incentives for farmers and an additional financial envelope in the 2023 budget”, while ensuring the decision will not lead to a reduction in the national herd. Irish Agriculture Minister Charlie McConlogh denied reports that the scheme would reduce the national herd by 13 per cent and the number of dairy cows by 11 per cent.

However, Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) president Tim Cullinan believes the announcement is a “devastating blow to Irish agriculture and the rural economy”. It calls on the Irish government to come up with real proposals and adequate funding to support climate action, including the development of on-farm renewables.