The farming sector in Ireland is an exemplar of an industry which has constantly adapted to take account of the circumstances it finds itself in, something for which it does not get sufficient credit.
Irish farming has lobbied successfully for decades based on its economic importance and essential role in sustaining the rural social fabric.
Today, it must respond to a scientific argument with science. In contrast, the economic argument remains strong, and food security, which has gained more attention due to Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, is still a priority.
Food is undoubtedly essential, and it is also a fact that all food production systems, including those based entirely on plants, cause damage to the environment. To better defend itself, the Irish farming sector should argue that, when considering the impact of the entire production system and supply chain, Irish farming inflicts significantly less damage than farming sectors in Europe, America, South America, and Asia.
Agriculture produces 90 per cent of nitrous oxide emissions in Ireland. The main sources are synthetic fertilisers, animal excreta and manure management (slurry storage and spreading).
Agriculture is by far the largest sectoral emitter of GHGs. The Environmental Protection Agency reported that agriculture was directly responsible for 37.5 per cent of national GHG emissions in 2021, main methane from livestock and nitrous oxide.
According to Data, beef tops the table – by a country mile – of food products for GHG emissions per kg of food product, at a massive 99.48kg. Lamb and mutton and then dairy are the next-highest emitters.
In conclusion, it is not surprising that the journal Science published research in 2018 indicating that the most significant action individuals can take to decrease their environmental impact on the planet is to avoid meat and dairy products.
Source: theirishtimes
