The impact of red seaweed on reducing methane emissions of dairy cows is being researched as part of a Victorian government program.
The government is supporting the agriculture sector to boost productivity and sustainability through a commitment to climate change research.
Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas visited Ellinbank SmartFarm in West Gippsland last month to recognise the first anniversary of the Victorian Agriculture and Climate Change Council (VACCC) being appointed.
She also observed experiments that test the impact of red seaweed on reducing methane emissions of dairy cows.
"The research being done at Ellinbank SmartFarm, guided by our VACCC, is a key example of how we are responding to industry's need to reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate," Ms Thomas said.
As part of the research investment, dairy cows at the Ellinbank SmartFarm are taking part in an experiment where they are fed red seaweed (Asparagopsis) in controlled amounts.
Red seaweed has shown great potential to significantly reduce methane emissions.
The Ellinbank SmartFarm is positioned to be the world's first carbon neutral dairy farm by 2026 and is showing this can be done while maintaining or improving productivity.
VACCC was appointed in 2020 to provide independent advice to the Victorian Government on how to support the state's agriculture sector to prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change.
In its first year, the VACCC has played a key role in shaping the design and delivery of the Agriculture Sector Pledge - the state government's $20 million investment in emissions reduction activities.
VACCC member Professor Richard Eckard said the agriculture sector was the fourth largest contributor to Victoria's greenhouse gas emissions.
VACCC valued the opportunity to shape the direction and delivery of the state's agriculture and climate change programs, he said.
This includes working with industry and government to develop Victoria's first Agriculture and Climate Change Statement, setting a shared vision for agriculture's role in a net zero emissions economy.
The VACCC has also provided critical input to the five-year Primary Production Adaptation Action Plan - set for release in early 2022 - which outlines government's priorities for ensuring Victoria's primary industries are climate resilient now and into the future.
Agriculture Victoria research director Professor Joe Jacobs said the research at the Ellinbank SmartFarm was delivering benefits to the Australian dairy industry.
It was providing critical insights to support the agriculture sector respond to climate change challenges while reducing emissions.
For more information visit Agriculture Victoria website.
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