Funding Innovation to Cut Agricultural Emissions

Research Ireland positions Ireland as a global leader in sustainable agri-tech and the bioeconomy, helping to meet climate goals.

Agriculture is central to Ireland’s economy, but it is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. The BiOrbic Research Ireland Centre is delivering transformative solutions while also supporting food security and rural livelihoods, ensuring future generations see farming as a viable and sustainable option.

BiOrbic, in partnership with the Carbery Group, developed a flagship project ‘Farm Zero C’ on a 250-acre dairy farm in Cork. Together, with strong community engagement, they have achieved the following:

• • 27% reduction in carbon emissions since 2018, surpassing Ireland’s 2030 target for agriculture
  • 75% cut in methane emissions from slurry
  • 40% reduction in synthetic fertiliser use

The farm’s carbon footprint is 33% below the national average and its biodiversity targets are five years ahead of schedule.

Research Ireland’s investments demonstrate the potential for research and innovation to enable Ireland to meet our climate goals.

The Challenge funding model enabled Farm Zero C to put the farmer at the centre of the solution, and informed how we pivoted our resources within BiOrbic, which shaped our vision for this project.

– Prof James Gaffey, Munster Technological University

Partners/co-funders:

BiOrbic Research Ireland Centre for Bioeconomy, Shinagh Estates, Dairy Research Ireland, MTU, Teagasc, TCD, UCC, UCD. Farm Zero C is co-funded by the Carbery Group and AIB.