Seaweed may be key to reduced emissions

The native seaweed Asparagopsis armata might have the potential to revolutionise pastoral farming. Picture / Supplied

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor last week announced government support for a project billed as having the potential to substantially reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions from cattle.

The announcement was made at Nelson's Cawthron Aquaculture Park, which will receive $100,000 from the government's Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures Fund to turn a native red seaweed (Asparagopsis armata) into a greenhouse gas-busting cattle feed supplement for domestic and global markets.

"If successful, this project could be a game-changer for farmers here and around the world," Mr O'Connor said.

"In previous trials Asparagopsis has been proven to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in livestock by up to 80 per cent. Other products typically provide reductions of between 10 and 20 per cent.

"Australian research estimates that if just 10 per cent of global ruminant producers adopted Asparagopsis as an additive to feed their livestock, it would have the same impact for our climate as removing 50 million cars from the world's roads.

"Farmers know better than most about the effects of climate change, and many are innovating so they can drive down on-farm emissions. They need technology like this to help them get there though," he added.

"Sustainable agribusiness and transitioning to a low-emissions economy is a major focus for the coalition government. It's why we established the $40 million a year SFFF fund last year, to invest in projects that deliver economic, environmental and social benefits for all Kiwis."

Aquaculture, he said, was a growth industry for New Zealand, and has the potential to play a more significant role in the economy. It was currently worth $600m a year, and employed more than 3000 people.

"The Cawthron project could lay the foundations for a new high-value industry, along with the jobs that go with it. There is also export potential and on-farm economic benefits, including price premiums for milk and meat," Mr O'Connor said.

"We want to be the most productive, sustainable country in the world. Projects like this will contribute to New Zealand's reputation in sustainable and innovative aquaculture and agriculture."