By Anna Ellis •
Published: 29 Nov 2024 • 11:33
• 1 minute read
Denmark, famous for its innovative cuisine and sleek design, is making history with the world’s first tax on livestock emissions.
The tax, targeting methane from animal belches, farts, and manure, was recently approved by Denmark’s parliament after years of debate.
Denmark is home to five times more pigs and cows than people, with nearly two-thirds of its land dedicated to farming. Agriculture now accounts for the largest share of the country’s climate pollution, putting pressure on lawmakers to act.
The new tax is part of a broader initiative to tackle agricultural pollution and restore some farmland to natural habitats, such as peatlands, which are highly effective at capturing greenhouse gases but were drained in the past for farming.
How does reducing emissions benefit farmers?
The measure is designed to reduce emissions gradually. It includes subsidies and a provision allowing farmers to reduce their tax burden, even to zero, if they adopt greener practices.
The legislation faced challenges from all sides. Environmental advocates argued that the tax was too lenient, while farming lobbies resisted higher rates proposed by experts. Ultimately, Denmark’s coalition government, representing diverse political interests, found a middle ground.
Denmark’s efforts reflect a growing trend among agricultural nations, including the U.S., to address farm-related climate pollution. These moves must navigate the influence of strong farming lobbies while responding to environmental demands.
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Originally from Derbyshire, UK, Anna has lived in the middle of nowhere on the Costa Blanca for 20 years.
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