Summer Grains and Carbon

Abstract

Summer grains producers have a unique opportunity to transform challenges posed by the need for Australia to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to sustainably improve farm profitability. Agriculture currently contributes around 19% to Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. As other industries reduce their emissions, that percentage is set to rise. As land managers, farmers are in a unique position to potentially both reduce emissions intensity through fine tuning farming practices and in some circumstances to sequester carbon in soils. As the value chain sets emissions targets in response to customer demand, trade requirements, and government regulation, grain growers will be expected to better understand and be able to calculate their greenhouse gas emissions. For grains production, nitrous oxide is the dominant greenhouse gas emitted. Farming practices, particularly related to efficient fertilizer use, crop rotations and soil management, can significantly reduce emissions. Increased soil organic matter, including increased soil carbon, benefits the production system through biological, physical, and chemical roles. In addition, in some circumstances, landholders may be able to monetise these benefits further through claiming Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) through the Australian Government Clean Energy Regulator. Grains producers need to be aware of both the opportunities and risks associated with the ACCU scheme. A panel session, including experts in the field, is proposed to discuss these topics and answer questions from delegates regarding the implication of greenhouse gas emissions targets for the summer grains industries.