Denmark is tackling climate change by the horns with a world-first tax on livestock farmers, targeting greenhouse gas emissions from cows, sheep, and pigs. Announced by Taxation Minister Jeppe Bruus, this "flatulence tax" aims to reduce emissions by 70% by 2030, steering the country towards climate neutrality by 2045.
Starting in 2030, farmers will be taxed 300 kroner (€40.2) per tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent, rising to 750 kroner (€100.5) by 2035. With a 60% income tax deduction, the effective cost will start at 120 kroner (€16) and increase to 300 kroner (€40.2) by 2035.
The initiative has received widespread support from farmers, industry representatives, and unions, ensuring its likely approval in parliament. The Danish Society for Nature Conservation has also welcomed the agreement as a historic compromise that will reshape the food industry for the better.
Denmark’s move will hopefully set a global precedent and be followed by more countries willing to demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility and the fight against climate change.
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Great! This could inspire other countries to follow 👏
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This is bold and a forward thinking initiative 👏.
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29 w
I believe that this will bring about reduction in the emissions as everyone will take responsibility of their emissions.
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@jane_wangui Absolutely right! 👏💚
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Great idea..everyone ought to take Responsibility of their actions inorder to bring about change.
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The livestock tax is definitely a step in the right direction, but we need to make sure small farmers aren't left struggling.
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am just neutral about this, let me see how it will unfold
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It is encouraging to see countries like Denmark taking concrete actions to reduce emissions at the source and promote sustainable agriculture practices. Such initiatives not only help in mitigating climate change but also pave the way for a transition towards more environmentally friendly and climate-resilient food production systems.
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@peter_karanga 💚💚
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Wow, this is great! And I love to see that the farmers also support it. I wonder how they managed to reach this agreement. But good job!
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@marine_stephan Definitely, they had deliberations and agreed on the way forward!