New Zealand Farmers Need Faster Progress On Technology To Help Meet 2050 Methane Targets

New Zealand farmers need faster progress on technology to help meet 2050 methane targets or they face having “large reductions” of stock. This from Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Simon Upton who has outlined the challenges facing livestock farmers trying to meet the legislated target to reduce methane emissions. Simon Upton says promising new technology such as methane inhibitors, low-emission sheep and cattle, low-emission feeds and feed additives, and even a methane vaccine. But he says each has its own challenges and barriers to overcome which take time. But he says it is clear that unless real progress is made on technology, the only way to meet 2050 methane targets will be through very large reductions in stocking rates. Simon Upton says high income international markets are now taking greater interest in emissions footprints of their food and drink and being able to show that NZ products are associated with the lowest possible emissions will be essential if the country is to continue to be a preferred supplier.