ON Monday the Irish government announced their most drastic plan to address climate change in the history of the state. Although this is very much needed and is an area which has to be addressed, it also poses some challenges, especially for those in the agricultural sector.

The government intends to tackle climate change in a through a range of different measures. These included taxes, addressing heating and electricity in home, transport, agricultural and through changes in overall government policy.

Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton described the plan as “ambitious but realistic”. The plans aims to help Ireland achieve its 2030 targets for carbon emissions.

Keenan on the right path

Keenan is an Irish-based machinery brand that is leading the way in creating a sustainable approach to reducing emissions in agriculture. Founded in 1978, Keenan has developed a strong reputation for manufacturing diet feeders. The company has also worked endlessly to invest in new technology and to combine cutting-edge technological developments with breakthrough nutritional expertise.

Keenan has been part of the Alltech family for over three years – Alltech also has a number of equestrian ventures.

Keenan has recently been certified by the Carbon Trust as a more sustainable diet feeder, proven to reduce methane emissions on-farm.

“In light of the government’s announcement regarding the Climate Action Plan, which aims to push Ireland to reach its 2030 targets, and to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, Keenan are delighted to offer farmers a tangible means of reducing their carbon footprint on-farm, while enhancing production and profitability,” said Matt Higgins, General Manager, Keenan.

The Carbon Trust verified that reduced methane output linked to enhanced rumen performance (per litre milk and daily liveweight gain in beef animals) can come as a result of improved feed conversion efficiency (FCE) in livestock.

The Trust investigated the Keenan diet feeder and reviewed data, and from this information they established that the Keenan diet feeder can increase rumen efficiency by delivering feed that is more easily digestible for cattle, meaning less energy is required and produced by each animal.

“The animal food supply chain is faced with growing pressures to reduce methane and carbon dioxide emissions. As concern for our planet’s finite resources escalates, we have a responsibility to be proactive in sourcing solutions and partnerships that can relieve environmental strain and prioritize sustainability on-farm.

“The Carbon Trust accreditation is a powerful endorsement, which enables us to further help farmers reduce their on-farm carbon footprint, while increasing their profitability,” concluded Higgins.