03.11.2010

The UK government has announced the launch of a new £12.6m research programme designed to develop new techniques for measuring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the agricultural sector.

According to government figures, agriculture accounts for eight per cent of the UK's greenhouse gas emissions, including 76 per cent of UK nitrous oxide emissions and 38 per cent of methane emissions.

However, the figures are calculated using what Defra admits is a simplified approach based on generic emissions values and national statistics for livestock numbers and fertiliser use. As such, they fail to take into account how different farming techniques can help to curb emissions.

This research fund aims to help industry understand these differences and give farmers the evidence needed to take more effective steps to reduce emissions.