Ag-Climatise-road map to 2030 and beyond

A public consultation on climate change in the agri-sector has been launched by Agriculture, Food and Marine Minister Michael Creed.

“Ag-Climatise” — a climate and air roadmap to 2030 and beyond - will remain open until January 10 next.

Minister Creed said the sector will play its part in the transition to a low carbon, climate resilient economy and society of the future, while also taking advantage of the opportunities this challenge presents.

He said the All-of-Government Climate Action plan contains an emissions reduction target of 10% to 15% for agriculture.

The sector will also contribute to the removal of 26.8Mt CO2 from the atmosphere through afforestation and new ways of managing land.

Minister Creed said the consultation document proposes a number of ambitious and challenging actions and targets.

These will require ongoing and concerted effort, but also a step-up right across the sector from primary producer through to the processor.

Minister Creed said Irish agriculture has become one of the most carbon efficient producers of beef and dairy in Europe. This is widely recognised under the Origin Green banner,” but we can, and need to do even better.”

The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association has meanwhile warned that the dominance of corporate retailers will have to be confronted if the farming and food reforms necessary for sustainability and climate-compatibility are to have any chance of success.

Lorcan McCabe, deputy president, speaking after attending a meeting in Belfast with the UK Competition and Markets Authority, said the new environment in farming and food production signals the end of the cheap food policy operated by the EU.