Media Release: 18 December, 2020
Farmers for Climate Action welcomes Victorian Agriculture and Climate Change Council appointments
Farmers for Climate Action welcomes the appointment of the state government’s Victorian Agriculture and Climate Change Council, saying it is well-equipped to provide sound advice on the challenges that climate change poses to the farming sector.
FCA CEO Wendy Cohen said:
“It’s important that governments at all levels take seriously the threat that climate change poses to Australia’s agricultural industry.”
“The Victorian Agriculture and Climate Change Council is made up of industry leaders who will provide the government with good advice on how to make our regional communities more resilient in the face of more extreme and volatile weather, while also reducing the farming sector’s carbon emissions.”
“We look forward to seeing the work the council does in the coming year.”
Victorian Agriculture and Climate Change Council deputy chairperson Mark Wootton, who is also a FCA member, achieved carbon neutrality nearly a decade ago at his property near Hamilton, Jigsaw Farms.
The family operation runs about 550 head of cattle and about 20,000 ewes, producing beef, fine wool and prime lamb.
Mr Wootton said:
“Whether it be longer, more frequent droughts or more ferocious bushfires, Victorian farmers are already feeling the impacts of climate change.”
“A state-wide approach is needed to tackle this urgent problem, which is why I’m really pleased to be joining the Victorian Agriculture and Climate Change Council as deputy chairperson.”
“Some farmers will find it more difficult than others to adapt to climate change and reduce their own carbon footprints, but the council will be working hard to build resilience in the sector so it can continue to thrive.”
FCA is a movement of about 5000 farmers and thousands of other supporters who want to ensure that the agricultural sector and the communities it supports are part of the solution to climate change.
