Aussie state to invest millions for sustainable farms

In a bid to "future proof" its agricultural sector, the government of the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) has announced an investment of 125 million Australian dollars (about 92 million U.S. dollars) that would incentivize farmers to reduce emissions.

The plan, dubbed "the Primary Industries Productivity and Abatement Program," would fund the monitoring of emissions in the state's farms and open up a "carbon credits" program -- allowing farmers to earn money for reductions in emissions.

"Primary producers and land managers are playing an important role in NSW achieving its goal of reducing emissions by 50 percent by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050," said NSW Treasurer and Minister for Energy and Environment Matt Kean.

According to government data, in 2019 the state's agricultural industry emitted 16 megatonnes of carbon dioxide, or 12 percent of its total emissions. As such it has become a major consideration in the state's drive to reach net-zero emissions.

The schemes would increase the viability for farmers in the state to engage in more sustainable farming practices, such as reducing the use of harmful fertilizers, and switching to renewable energy forms such as solar or wind power.

The state's Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW Dugald Saunders said the program would open to applications for funding in the coming months.

"This is all about building economic resilience and creating jobs in regional communities, by encouraging sustainable farming practices through grants programs and partnerships with financial institutions," said Saunders.

NSW's push to reduce its emissions has put opposing forces on farmers in the state.

On the one hand incentive programs have increased the economic viability of going green, but on the other government renewable energy projects have led to land-use conflicts, and emission targets have constricted agricultural production.

A state advocacy group, NSW Farmers CEO Pete Arkle told Xinhua on Monday that farmers needed incentives and not regulation if they were to continue to be a driver of economic growth in the state.

"While there are still punitive and excessive regulations on private agricultural land inhibiting the use of technology and diversification, this program has an opportunity to take a broad look and remove 'green tape'," said Arkle.

"A key to this engagement is farmers working with the government in an open partnership model and demonstrating how this can be implemented will be important."