Australia’s agricultural emissions jump 8.3 per cent in three months
Agricultural emissions in Australia have jumped from an all-time low — and the upward trend is likely to continue.
AUSTRALIA’s agricultural greenhouse gas emissions have rebounded from an all-time low to jump 8.3 per cent in just three months.
The latest update of Australia’s Greenhouse Gas Inventory shows actual ag emissions rose to 18.8 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents between July and September last year, as easing drought conditions saw a boost in productivity.
The figures are an about-face from the record low ag-related emissions of 17.7mtCO2e for the same quarter in 2019 – a figure that had largely been attributed to the ongoing drought and declining herds of cattle and sheep.
Australia’s agricultural emissions now account for 14.1 per cent of the national inventory, up from 12.9 per cent in 2019 and still second only to the energy sector.
Agricultural emissions primarily come from methane and nitrous oxide in manure, rice cultivation, fertilisers and crop residues, and field burning.
The report states that for the year to September 2020, agricultural emissions overall were down 2.3 per cent compared with the previous year – a change of 73.9mtCO2e to 72.1mtCO2e.
However, the quarterly breakdown shows a clear rise in emissions was recorded from June, and that trend is likely to stay.
“There has been some rebound in crop production in the September quarter 2020 due to more favourable climatic conditions,” the report stated.
“Emissions from crop production should continue to increase in future quarters, with wheat production forecast to rebound strongly.”
Farmers for Climate Action chair Charlie Prell said it was disappointing to see emissions rebound so quickly after the temporary drop, but that it reinforced the “urgency of the situation” in regards to Australia’s climate commitments.
“Agriculture needs substantial support for research and development into methods that can be used to abate carbon … and some recognition or reward for farmers who are prepared to grow or retain trees and vegetation on their property,” he said.
The new data comes amid a renewed climate fight in the Federal Government, with a number of Nationals – including Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack and several vocal backbenchers – suggesting agriculture should be exempt from any national net-zero emissions target.
But Agriculture Minister David Littleproud this week told The Weekly Times that the Government “wants agriculture to be part of the solution”.
“We believe emerging technology is the answer that will reduce emissions and reward farmers,” he said.
The Government is working on a biodiversity stewardship program for farmers that is expected to be unveiled in the coming months.
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