National Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Plan for Agriculture Kicks Off in Mpumalanga

This week marked the start of nine provincial stakeholder engagements under South Africa’s National Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Reduction Plan for the Agricultural Sector. The initiative is led by the Agricultural Research Council’s Natural Resources and Engineering division (ARC-NRE) in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD).

The inaugural session, held in Mpumalanga Province, launched a nationwide effort to engage key agricultural players on strategies to reduce emissions while promoting sustainable growth. The event brought together government officials, researchers, farmers, agribusinesses, and environmental experts to discuss practical pathways toward a low-carbon and climate-resilient agricultural sector.

The National GHG Emission Reduction Plan aims to align South Africa’s agricultural practices with global climate commitments while maintaining food security and rural development. Participants explored the sector’s major emission sources, including livestock production, fertilizer use, and energy consumption, and discussed technological and policy interventions to minimize environmental impact.

ARC-NRE experts presented data-driven approaches to improve soil health, optimize fertilizer efficiency, and promote renewable energy adoption on farms. Stakeholders also shared successful examples of climate-smart initiatives already implemented in various regions, showing how innovation and adaptation can go hand in hand.

According to the ARC-NRE, the provincial engagements will gather local input to refine the national plan, ensuring it reflects the diverse realities of farmers across South Africa. Each province will contribute unique insights based on its agro-ecological conditions, farming systems, and resource challenges.

The Mpumalanga session set a strong foundation for the upcoming engagements in other provinces. Discussions highlighted the importance of capacity building, financial support, and knowledge sharing to enable farmers to transition to greener practices without compromising productivity.

As climate change continues to affect weather patterns and crop yields, the success of the National GHG Emission Reduction Plan will depend on active collaboration between government, researchers, and the farming community. The initiative represents a crucial step in shaping a sustainable agricultural future for South Africa—one rooted in innovation, resilience, and environmental responsibility.