Low carbon farming crucial for Northern Ireland's climate goals

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has emphasized the importance of low carbon farming to achieve Northern Ireland's climate goals. They have called for immediate action from the government. The CCC's new recommendations suggest a 77% reduction in overall emissions by 2040 as part of Northern Ireland's fourth carbon budget. To reach a legally-binding net zero target by 2050, the CCC has provided 18 key recommendations. These include improving electricity supply, supporting low-carbon heating in homes, and expanding electric vehicle charging stations. The interim chair, Professor Piers Forster, expressed optimism, stating that government, businesses, and farmers can work together for positive change. Carbon budgets define how much carbon can be emitted over time. The CCC believes that immediate government action is necessary to advance climate commitments. Their advice usually influences governmental policies, and previous recommendations were enacted into law by the Assembly. The CCC found that technology improvements in transport, buildings, and industry, along with an enhanced electrification of the power system will help achieve 55% of the required emissions reductions. While some areas are outside the devolved authorities' control, the government can improve clean electricity and electric heating infrastructures. More than 60% of the emissions reductions needed will come from transportation, buildings, and agriculture. As agriculture is the largest source of greenhouse gases in Northern Ireland, the CCC advocates for farmers to adopt low-carbon practices and diversify land use, such as restoring peatlands and creating woodlands. The CCC also highlights the necessity for "engineered removals," such as Direct Air Carbon Capture and Storage, to successfully meet carbon budget goals. They have relocated some of these technologies to Northern Ireland to explore feasible paths. The committee believes that a more ambitious approach is needed to meet the legally-binding Net Zero target by 2050.