How Australian farmers could reach net zero by 2040

Words: Adeshola Ore Producer: Louise Starkey

A report commissioned by Farmers for Climate Action has revealed Australia’s agriculture sector could commit to reach net zero by 2040 without industry shrinkage.

The report recommends improving pasture management, selective breeding and the use of feed supplements to reduce methane output.

The Ernst & Young report has modelled a pathway to carbon neutrality for the sector, outlining ways farmers could diversify their income and boost their profit.

While many of the practices are already occurring, they need to be scaled up.

That’s according to FCA chief executive Fiona Davis, who said "all of these things will contribute to more profitable and resilient farming systems".

Ms Davis added the planting of crops that capture carbon should be voluntary.

Australian farmers are expected to reap a record $73bn in produce this financial year, according to the government’s commodity forecaster.

The agricultural sector is feeling the strain of the impact of climate change on business, with the average Australian farming family losing $30,000 a year due to lost productivity.

The report comes amid an ongoing rift in the Coalition about a net zero target, with the Nationals still opposed to the goal.

However, Prime Minister Scott Morrison is on board - signalling his commitment to reach net zero emissions as soon as possible and preferably by 2050.