Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2021
701. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which his Department has examined the various potential options for micro electricity generation, farm management, tree planting and or any other measures likely to offset against or reduce carbon emissions with particular reference to the need to ensure family farm viability into the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54182/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe recent launch of the Climate Action Plan 2021 has highlighted a series of actions for all sectors of the economy which must be implemented to place Ireland firmly on the pathway to a more sustainable future. Our combined efforts to implement these actions and achieve ambitious targets will create a cleaner, greener economy and society, while also protecting society from the devastating consequences of climate change
The agricultural sector in particular has ambitious targets within this plan which include the reduction of emissions by 22-30% by 2030 with the over-arching aim of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions no later than 2050.
Measures specific to the agricultural sector which have been included in the plan include the increased uptake of GHG-efficient farming practices, reducing fertiliser use, increasing the use of clover, multi-species swards, improving animal breeding and reducing the crude protein in the diet, as well as earlier finishing of animals and increase in organics.
These measures will be backed by a research programme to bring new technologies and feed additives on stream to aid in reaching our ambitions. The Climate Action Plan also commits the Government to examining pathways to significantly increase the area of land under organic production while also exploring the development of a carbon farming model for Irish farmers and land owners which financially rewards the carbon sequestration and emission reduction/off setting activities taking place every-day on Irish farms across the country.
To help encourage on-farm renewable technology uptake and usage, my Department will continue to provide grant aid through the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS II) to assist our farmers in maximising their contribution to the production of renewable energy through the installation of mainly roof-top Solar PV technology along with battery storage on Irish farms across the country.
