26 October 2021
Urgent action needed this decade, farmers say
Tuesday, 26 October: Farmers for Climate Action welcomes the federal government’s recognition of the important role agriculture will play in the transition to a low emissions future, but says more needs to be done across the economy to reduce emissions this decade.
Farmers for Climate Action CEO Fiona Davis said farmers also welcomed reviews of the economic impacts of the plan on regional and rural communities every five years, with one important caveat. “It’s important these reviews also take into account the economic impacts of climate change itself.”
She said farmers wanted to be part of the solution and see the opportunity this presents for their communities. “However, achieving net zero emissions needs to be a responsibility shared by all economic sectors, in particular transport and energy.
“Let’s remember we can’t kick the can down the road and draw down emissions on the eve of 2050. We need to urgently make deep emissions cuts before 2030. This is the most important decade to protect farming families.”
Farmers for Climate Action was pleased to see the government acknowledge the potential for farmers to diversify their income streams into carbon crops as a result of strong climate policy.
Dr Davis said farmers needed a stable climate to continue to produce the food and fibre on which Australia and the world relies. “Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, but it also presents an incredible opportunity for Australia, thanks to our ample sun and wind, and our long history of innovation. It’s time for our work together across our communities to ensure we don’t just survive but thrive into the future.
“Farmers for Climate Action looks forward to seeing more details and the modelling of Australia’s plan to reach net zero emissions by 2050.”
Farmers across the country are available to interview.
Farmers for Climate Action is a movement of more than 6000 farmers and agricultural leaders working to ensure that farmers, who are on the frontlines of climate change, are part of its solution.
For interviews please contact Bec Gredley on 0484 008 095 or Amelia Pepe on 0429 618 735
