23 Oct 2022
The Federal Government has today confirmed that Australia’s red meat and livestock industry will not be negatively impacted by its decision to sign Australia up to the Global Methane Pledge. The Federal Government has listened to industry concerns by ruling out methane tax or any other punitive measures that could harm Australia’s red meat supply chain.
The non-binding pledge will complement and support the red meat and livestock sector’s existing plans to be carbon neutral by 2030
The red meat and livestock sector is proactively addressing emissions and is well advanced in achieving its target of being carbon neutral 2030
The Federal Government has today confirmed that Australia’s red meat and livestock industry will not be negatively impacted by its decision to sign Australia up to the Global Methane Pledge.
As part of this promise the government has ruled out introducing a methane tax or any other punitive measures or regulation that could harm the red meat industry or lead to a reduction in livestock numbers. The government has also confirmed it will be a non-binding target that will complement and support industry’s existing plans to be carbon neutral by 2030 (CN30).
“Over recent weeks the red meat and livestock industry has sought urgent assurances from the Federal Government that our sector would not be unfairly impacted by the global methane pledge,” John McKillop, the Independent Chair of the Red Meat Advisory Council said.
“Today’s announcement shows the government has listened to our concerns and recognises the Australian red meat and livestock industry is proactively addressing emissions and is well advanced in achieving its CN30 target. Industry’s net emissions have reduced by almost 60% since 2005, representing by far the greatest reduction by any sector of Australia’s economy.”
“With the right policy settings and ongoing research investment, our industry can be at the forefront of the climate solution.”
“Most of the red meat industry’s reductions to date have been via carbon storage in vegetation and increased efficiency. It is expected that much of the remaining net emissions reductions will be reductions in methane, which requires ongoing investment in research, development and adoption.”
“The government can continue to help the red meat industry reduce methane emissions by funding activities aimed at fast-tracking commercialisation of methane reducing feed additives, helping producers commence emissions accounting for their farm businesses and development of emissions reduction fund methodologies and other incentives for adoption of novel feed additives, and future innovations.”
“It’s important to remember that methane emitted by ruminants like cattle, sheep and goats is recycled into carbon in plants and soil, a process known as the biogenic carbon cycle, and does not contribute additional net inputs to the environment, unlike other emission sources.
“Our sector is at the forefront of delivering a science-based plan to reach carbon neutrality by 2030 without compromising productivity or livestock numbers,” said Mr McKillop.
To learn more about the environmental impact of livestock methane in the natural carbon cycle, watch this animation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLmpC-VZoD8
The Red Meat Advisory Council (RMAC) is Australia’s only policy leadership and advisory forum made up of producers, lot feeders, processors, manufacturers, retailers and livestock exporters, representing the entire supply chain from paddock to plate. RMAC members are the following prescribed Peak Industry Councils under the Australian Meat and Livestock Industry Act 1997.
Media contact Red Meat Advisory Council (RMAC)
Alastair James, Chief Executive Officer
0428 776 626