Tuesday, March 1 2022. Farmers are calling on the Federal Government to step up its game on emissions reductions and protect Australian farming families following the release of a new global report.
The latest IPCC report shows Australian agriculture is already copping it and that without deep cuts this decade worse is to come. This includes a drop in wheat yields by up to 30 per cent in south-west Australia, alongside lower milk production and livestock reproduction as a result of extreme weather events.
We need deep emissions cuts this decade to protect Australian farmers. Agriculture is leading the way on emissions reduction but we need deep emissions cuts in transport and energy.
Regional Australia has so much to gain from emissions reduction. It will not only protect our farmers and our food supplies, but we can create tens of thousands of regional jobs in green hydrogen and renewable power generation.
The IPCC report confirms again Australia will produce less food in key farming areas. Hot days, more heatwaves and less rain through cool seasons in the south-west and south-east of the continent will mean more heat stress for livestock and reduced grass growth. Ultimately this will mean Australia produces less red meat and less of the country will be suitable for growing crops.
Statement attributable to Farmers for Climate Action CEO Fiona Davis.
Farmers for Climate Action is a movement of 7000 farmers and agricultural leaders working to ensure that farmers, who are on the frontlines of climate change, are part of its solution.
