Kangaroos the solution to lingering livestock gas challenge
Publication date
Monday, 23 Oct 2023
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Reducing the carbon footprint of livestock is a major challenge for Australian producers, but there might be a home-grown solution, according to an expert from The Australian National University (ANU).
Methane produced by beef cattle and sheep currently makes up nine per cent of Australia’s total greenhouse gas emissions. While the country’s red meat industry aims to be carbon neutral by 2030, progress on reducing the amount of methane the animals produce has proven difficult, meaning the industry would have to rely on offsets.
But there may be a better option, according to Honorary Professor George Wilson from the ANU Fenner School of Environment and Society.
Business and governments across the world are embedding carbon abatement considerations into their trade negotiations and relationships. As an industry dependent on exporting, Australian agriculture must be ready to adjust to a more carbon-conscious trading future.