Fiji is pioneering a significant initiative in the Pacific by measuring methane emissions from livestock, aiming to create a comprehensive data inventory that will be essential for securing climate financing in the future. This project is part of an effort funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) to enhance Fiji’s greenhouse gas inventories, with a particular focus on integrating livestock emissions reduction into the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).

The initiative is being spearheaded by Riverine Plains Inc., an Australian member-based farming systems group, in partnership with the Fijian government. The team is working towards implementing a Tier 2 measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) system specifically for livestock. This effort is poised to contribute to Fiji’s Low Emission Development Strategy.

According to Dr. Natalie Doran-Browne, the project leader from Riverine Plains, they have developed a locally tailored approach for measuring emissions, utilizing the sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) tracer technique. This method involves inserting a permeation tube into the rumen of cows to release SF6 gas, enabling the collection of methane samples from the cows’ breath for accurate measurements.

Dr. Doran-Browne noted that the project is collecting daily data, marking a significant advancement in fine-tuning Fiji’s emission factors to accurately reflect local conditions. Dr. James Quilty, ACIAR’s research general manager, highlighted the importance of collaborating with local partners to cultivate robust inventory systems that enhance best MRV practices.

Furthermore, Fiji’s Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways undersecretary Dr. Andrew Tukana emphasized the significance of this initiative in helping the nation achieve net-zero emissions. He pointed out that establishing an accurate national inventory is a priority for Fiji, especially as it actively participates in the Initiative for Climate Action Transparency (ICAT). The development of a stronger inventory system is also expected to bolster efforts to secure climate financing.

The project represents a collaborative effort involving Riverine Plains, Koronivia Research Station, the Ministry of Environment, University of the South Pacific (USP), and Fiji National University (FNU) to collect, analyze, and interpret vital data for the country.

This initiative not only underscores Fiji’s commitment to combating climate change but also positions the nation as a leader in sustainable agricultural practices within the Pacific region. By effectively measuring livestock emissions, Fiji is taking crucial steps toward its environmental goals and fostering resilience against the adverse effects of climate change.