Government Advisers Warn Livestock Farms Need Support to Meet Climate Targets
Government advisers have issued a warning that livestock farms must receive assistance in adapting to climate change targets, or else they face significant job losses. Agriculture in Wales contributed to 14% of emissions in 2019, with two-thirds of that coming from methane generated by livestock and manure.
A recent report emphasized the need for livestock farms to “redirect” their practices as society moves towards decarbonization in order to meet climate goals. The Welsh government stated that it is taking action to ensure a “just transition” towards achieving net-zero emissions.
Both Wales and the UK have legally binding targets to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, requiring substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. However, the Climate Change Committee (CCC), which advises ministers on climate change, predicts that these changes could have significant consequences for the farming workforce.
According to the CCC’s estimations, between 7,000 and 42,000 jobs could be lost across the UK unless livestock farms adapt to the changing demands of their work. Sheep farmer Ian Rickman, 61, highlighted the need for the older generation to receive training and support in embracing new technologies and approaches.
Rickman, the deputy president of the Farmers’ Union of Wales, has recently partnered with 26-year-old Sean Jeffreys through a Welsh government-funded scheme that connects new farmers with landowners looking to step back. They are actively focusing on improving the environmental aspects of their business, including diversifying the grass in their fields to enhance biodiversity and soil health.
However, concerns remain about the future of farming and food security. Jeffreys expressed worry that the government is not prioritizing food security sufficiently, potentially leading to excessive tree planting on farmland and increased reliance on imports. Maintaining viable farming businesses and preserving jobs is crucial, as farming serves as the backbone of the rural economy.
- Mum and kids stranded on snowbound road rescued by ‘hero’ farmer
- Proposed childcare charge for school breakfast clubs scrapped
- The full details of the two Met Office weather warnings covering Wales this weekend as Storm Bert hits
- Drug dealer caught for the fifth time admits he is ‘not good’ at it
- A Welsh council has started the process of turning nearly 50 20mph roads to 30mph
Penri James, a visiting lecturer in agriculture at Aberystwyth University, called for comprehensive and interconnected government strategies to address climate change, farming, skills, and employment. He emphasized that if the transition is not managed correctly, there will be significant job losses in rural areas, resulting in the decline of viable businesses and socio-economic consequences, particularly for the Welsh language.
The Welsh government welcomed the report, citing it as a validation of their plans to transform farm support payments. They highlighted their sustainable farming scheme, scheduled to launch in 2025, which aims to support farmers in sustainable food production while addressing climate and nature emergencies.
The UK government assured that their plans for green jobs would prioritize not leaving any workers behind. They emphasized significant investments, amounting to nearly £4 billion, in supporting individuals through retraining and upskilling programs.