New South Wales (NSW) agricultural emissions (excluding fuel use on-farm and emissions from land clearing) accounted for 15% of total NSW greenhouse gas emissions in 2021. Livestock were responsible for the majority of agricultural emissions, with enteric methane from ruminant livestock being the largest source at 69%. The agriculture sector is one of the most affected by climate change, but is in a unique position, due to its resources, to be a part of the solution to reduce NSW's emissions.
The NSW Government, through the Net Zero Plan, has invested $125 million in the Primary Industries Productivity and Abatement Program (PIPAP) to support farmers and land managers to optimise productivity, reduce emissions, and seize new market opportunities. The On-Farm Carbon Advice project is funded through PIPAP and is a joint initiative between NSW Department of Primary Industries and the Office of Energy and Climate Change.
What is the On-Farm Carbon Advice project?
The On-Farm Carbon Advice project is building knowledge and capability of carbon farming practices in NSW extensive beef, sheep, dairy, and mixed farming systems.
The project is increasing awareness and understanding of:
- a changing climate, impacts and global action
- agricultural emissions
- emissions reduction and carbon sequestration strategies
- the pros and cons of carbon farming including market opportunities.
The 4-year On-Farm Carbon Advice project, ending in June 2026, will deliver:
- a range of education and training products for different levels of knowledge e.g. Carbon Farming Fundamentals (½ day introductory workshops for farmers starting their carbon journey), Carbon Farming Masterclasses (specific advanced knowledge delivery), and Regional Forums (large event technical forums)
- an online community of practice website with useful tools and resources
- Farm Carbon Management Plans for 150 individual enterprises, estimating emissions and carbon farming opportunities
- demonstration sites that showcase emissions reduction and sequestration technologies and practices.
For further information about the On-Farm Carbon Advice project email carbon@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Accessing Carbon Markets
Information on how to participate in carbon markets.
Abatement opportunities in agriculture
Information on Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) sources & sinks, carbon sequestration and carbon neutrality in farming systems.
Emissions Reductions Pathways
Information on pathways for emissions reduction in agricultural systems.
News
A farmer's handbook to on-farm carbon management
This document by AgriFutures is a handy resource for farmers who want to know more about carbon farming.
Carbon Dioxide Removal for Australian Carbon Neutrality
An article co-authored by Dr Annette Cowie and others published in The Conversation.
