Fiji is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative in the Pacific aimed at measuring methane emissions from livestock. This effort is part of a larger project funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), focused on improving Fiji’s greenhouse gas inventories and integrating livestock emissions reduction into the nation’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).
The initiative is led by the Australian farming systems group Riverine Plains Inc, in collaboration with the Fijian government. Their objective is to co-develop a Tier 2 measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) system specifically for livestock, which will contribute significantly to Fiji’s Low Emission Development Strategy.
Dr. Natalie Doran-Browne, project leader at Riverine Plains, explained that they have created a locally adapted method for measuring emissions, utilizing the sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) tracer technique. This method involves placing a permeation tube in a cow’s rumen to release SF6 gas, which is then measured alongside methane released from the cow’s nostrils, allowing for precise emission rate calculations.
Dr. Doran-Browne emphasized the importance of collecting daily data, which is a critical advancement in refining Fiji’s emission factors to better suit local circumstances. Dr. James Quilty, ACIAR’s general manager of Research, noted that this project offers a unique opportunity for collaboration with local partners to enhance inventory systems and improve MRV practices.
Furthermore, Dr. Andrew Tukana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, highlighted that this initiative is a significant stride toward Fiji’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions. He stated that developing an accurate and defensible national inventory is paramount for Fiji as a participant in the Initiative for Climate Action Transparency (ICAT). A robust inventory system is expected to bolster Fiji’s capabilities in securing climate finance, as outlined in the country’s NDC.
Since the project involves collaboration between Riverine Plain, Koronivia Research Station, Ministry of Environment, the University of the South Pacific (USP), and Fiji National University (FNU), it underscores a collective commitment to address climate challenges and aims to yield valuable data for Fiji’s sustainable future.
This initiative not only demonstrates Fiji’s leadership in climate action but also sets a precedent for other Pacific nations to follow. By accurately measuring livestock emissions, Fiji is paving the way toward a more sustainable agricultural sector and a healthier planet.
In summary, Fiji’s innovative approach to measuring livestock greenhouse gas emissions marks a significant step in the nation’s commitment to combat climate change while also preparing for future climate financing opportunities. This cooperative effort among various sectors is a hopeful indication of what can be achieved when communities unite for environmental goals.
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