Recommendations for Implementation for Australia and the World
Carbon sequestration through bio-agriculture can be immediately implemented. It is the most cost effective option to reduce CO2-e emissions while alternative energy sources are being developed.
Compared to other methods of emission reductions, carbon sequestration through bio-agriculture is simple to implement. The proposal of converting only a small percentage of land to bio-agriculture each year makes it easy to manage. Conversion costs for farmers are relatively low.
A Simple Implementation and Administration of the Program
Baseline soil carbon measurements are taken when a farmer begins bio-agricultural farming. Further measurements of carbon increases are taken every two to three years. Farmers pay for soil carbon measuring costs. The Government oversees testing organisations. Farmers lodge carbon measurement increases with their tax returns and receive carbon-credits via the taxation department. Farmers can be certified by any government approved, certifying organisation of their choice. In Australia, the Tax Office infrastructure can be used and is well equipped to run the program. It is easy to replicate the Australian program all over the World, both in developed and developing countries.
In Australia, a funding model is to acknowledge the emission footprint each person makes, with a contribution of an extra 0.005% of GST (Goods and Services Tax) equaling 1cent extra on every $200 spent. This would adequately fund costs. The low cost of implementing the program and the substantial financial benefits would be critical factors in helping achieve international agreements.
The International Federation of Organic Agriculture (IFOAM) could help facilitate the conversion program of farmers, through the Organic Federation of Australia and Biodynamics 2024 Pty Ltd’s introductory and farm advisory services.
Bio-Agriculture Limited (a not for profit company, working in research and development), could assist with the implementation of the introductory and educational aspects of the program.
Working in cooperation with Bio-Agriculture Limited, Grainsmith Consultancy Pty Ltd could help with the implementation of soil carbon measurements.
The bio-agricultural solution is beneficial to the the world and is simple to implement by farmers and govermments
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Soil carbon sequestration is a win-win strategy. It mitigates climate change by offsetting anthropogenic emissions; improves the environment, especially the quality of natural waters; enhances soil quality; improves agronomic productivity; and advances food security. It is the low-hanging fruit and a bridge to the future, until carbon-neutral fuel sources and low-carbon economy take effect
“Agriculture is recognized as a sector with such potential and farmers, ranchers, herders and other land users around the world can and should be part of the solution to climate change.”