How Robust is Australia's Soil Carbon Farming Method?

1 July

Voluntary carbon markets are ramping up efforts to credit soil carbon removal, with lawmakers and regulators eager to follow suit. Among these efforts, Australia’s Clean Energy Regulator's Soil Carbon Farming Method stands out as the highest-rated soil carbon method in the world, according to a comprehensive review by carbonplan.org. This recognition underscores the robustness and effectiveness of the Australian approach in promoting sustainable agriculture and carbon sequestration.

The Importance of Soil Carbon Farming

Soil carbon farming involves agricultural practices such as planting cover crops, improving grazing management, and optimising nitrogen application. These practices enhance soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase carbon sinks, making them a win-win solution for farmers and the environment. However, determining when these practices actually increase carbon stocks and how to measure and credit their gains remains complex.

Challenges in Crediting Soil Carbon

The efficacy of soil carbon interventions depends on local climate conditions, land management history, and soil characteristics. Soil carbon varies substantially over time, space, and depth, and changes occur slowly, making it difficult to track and measure reliably. A variety of protocols have emerged to tackle this complexity, but they vary significantly in scientific rigour, additionality, and durability.

Australia’s Soil Carbon Farming Method

Australia’s Soil Carbon Farming Method has been highly rated for its robust soil sampling requirements and overall methodological integrity. The protocol employs empirical crediting based on rigorous soil sampling, ensuring that carbon sequestration claims are backed by solid data. This method stands out among other protocols for its comprehensive approach to measuring and verifying soil carbon gains.

1. Rigor: Utilises empirical soil sampling to quantify carbon sequestration accurately. Australia’s Soil Carbon Farming Method received three out of a possible three stars for this metric.

2. Additionality: Implements a “newness” requirement to ensure that only new management practices are credited, promoting genuine climate benefits. Australia’s Soil Carbon Farming Method received two out of a possible three stars for this metric.

3. Durability: Offers a choice between 25- or 100-year permanence obligations, with discount rates to account for reversal risks. Australia’s Soil Carbon Farming Method received two out of a possible three stars for this metric.

4. Safeguards: Provides high landowner protections, data privacy, and community engagement standards. Australia’s Soil Carbon Farming Method received three out of a possible three stars for this metric.

Overall, Australia’s Soil Carbon Farming Method (2018) received a rating of four stars out of a possible five stars, making it the highest-rated method in the world. Carbonplan.org is working to include a rating of Australia’s 2021 Soil Carbon Farming Method.

Benefits for Australian Farmers

Improved Soil Health and Productivity

Adopting soil carbon farming practices leads to healthier soils, which can enhance crop yields and reduce input costs. Improved soil structure and fertility support robust plant growth, increasing farm productivity and profitability.

Climate Resilience

Enhanced soil carbon storage helps mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods. Healthier soils retain moisture better and improve water infiltration, making crops more resilient to adverse weather conditions.

Financial Incentives

Farmers can generate additional income through the sale of Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) issued by the Clean Energy Regulator. These carbon credits provide financial rewards for sustainable farming practices.

Addressing Risks and Opportunities

Environmental Safeguards

The Australian protocol includes stringent safeguards to ensure minimal environmental impact. Rigorous soil testing and adherence to regulatory standards help prevent contamination and protect local ecosystems.

Regulatory and Market Stability

Australia’s robust framework provides clarity and stability for farmers and project developers. By aligning with international standards and incorporating rigorous verification processes, the protocol ensures the credibility of carbon credits in the global market.

Conclusion

Australia’s Clean Energy Regulator’s Soil Carbon Farming Method stands out as the highest-rated protocol for soil carbon removal. It offers a robust framework for farmers to enhance soil health, mitigate climate risks, and generate financial returns. By adopting these practices, Australian farmers can play a crucial role in global climate change mitigation, securing a sustainable future for agriculture and the environment.

Louise Edmonds

Louise is an innovator and entrepreneur in regenerative agriculture and the emerging carbon and environmental markets. Throughout her career, she’s had a sole driving vision: to restore the health of agricultural ecosystems.

As Founder and CEO of Carbon Sync, Louise is a seasoned expert in regenerative agriculture. She brings together the best people and technology to create robust, decades-long programs that help farmers implement management practices to enhance the health of their farm ecosystem. Louise believes climate stability can be achieved through the restoration of our soils.

With a deep understanding of Australian policy, the regulatory environment, and international agricultural trends, Louise is an invaluable resource for Western Australian farmers seeking to capitalise on changing market conditions.