IFA seeks review of how emissions are measured
IFA environment and rural affairs chairman Harold Kingston said the Government also needs to provide full recognition of the carbon sinks in forestry and grasslands.
Mr Kingston said: “The most recent projections from the EPA indicate Ireland could miss emission reduction targets by up to 11%. However, agriculture can play a significant role in achieving further emission reductions and delivering renewable energy obligations.
"This can only happen with the introduction of a clear bioenergy and renewables strategy from Government.
"This must include improved Renewable Energy Feed in Tariffs, the development of end-use markets for renewable crops and the co-ordination of activity between state agencies to ensure renewable energy obligations are delivered, emissions are reduced and job creation is supported in rural areas”.
The IFA spokesman said the EU and the UN IPCC cannot ignore food security and water availability when addressing the climate challenge. Demand for food is set to increase by 70% by 2050, with demand for meat to rise by 85% over the same period.
The UN also predicts a 40% worldwide water shortfall and an increase of 55% in demand for water within 15 years.
The Environmental Protection Agency said cement industry emissions rose 31% in 2014. Emissions from the power generation sector fell by 1.7%.
Overall, the near 100 Irish-based participants in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme reported 1.7% more greenhouse gas emissions in 2014.
