NSW farmers take part in carbon planning to cut on-farm emissions

MORE than 120 NSW farmers are working with government experts to develop plans aimed at measuring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions on their properties.

The work is being carried out through the On-Farm Carbon Advice project, which provides tailored carbon management plans across livestock, dairy and mixed farming systems.

The plans help farmers understand where emissions are generated on their farms and identify practical options to reduce or avoid emissions, improve efficiency and increase carbon sequestration.

They include emissions profiles, estimates of emissions intensity for key products and mapping of natural assets such as soil carbon and vegetation.

The project is being delivered through a collaboration between the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

NSW agriculture minister Tara Moriarty said the plans were designed to give farmers clearer information about their emissions and how they compare with others in the sector.

“It will help farmers meet the emerging demand, from their supply chains and customers, for low carbon produce, and secure their market access into the future,” Moriarty said.

Casino dairy farmer Fleur Tonge said working with carbon experts had improved understanding of emissions on her property.

“The time and effort working with carbon experts has helped us better understand how we can reduce greenhouse emissions on our properties,” Tonge said.

“These reports are presented in an easy-to-understand manner with sound data and recommendations.”

The project forms part of the Primary Industries Productivity and Abatement Program.