Denmark is set to implement a groundbreaking initiative by taxing livestock farmers for the greenhouse gases emitted by cows, sheep, and pigs starting in 2030. This move makes Denmark the first country in the world to target methane emissions from livestock, a significant contributor to global warming.
The Danish government aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70% from 1990 levels by 2030. To achieve this goal, livestock farmers will face a tax of $43 per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2030, which will gradually increase to $108 by 2035.
While carbon dioxide is often in the spotlight for its impact on climate change, methane is a potent greenhouse gas that traps significantly more heat. Livestock, including cows, sheep, and pigs, account for about 32% of human-caused methane emissions, according to the U.N. Environment Program.
The tax agreement in Denmark was reached through a consensus involving the government, farmers, industry representatives, and unions. This historic compromise sets the stage for a restructured food industry beyond 2030, as stated by Maria Reumert Gjerding, head of the Danish Society for Nature Conservation.
Denmark's move towards taxing livestock emissions comes amidst a backdrop of protests by farmers across Europe against climate change regulations. The tax bill is expected to pass in the Danish parliament, given the broad-based support for the initiative.
With a typical Danish cow producing 6.6 tons of CO2 equivalent per year, the tax will also apply to pigs, although cows are the primary focus due to their higher emissions. Denmark, known for its dairy and pork exports, is taking a significant step towards climate neutrality by introducing this pioneering tax on agriculture.
This bold step by Denmark is seen as a model for other countries to follow in addressing methane emissions from livestock. The tax is part of Denmark's broader strategy to achieve climate neutrality by 2045, setting a precedent for global climate action.
