On The Land
2 March, 2025
Turning science to finance
AUSTRALIAN farmers can now tackle emissions from the ground up, with a free guide available to develop and implement sustainable practices on farms.
The Towards Net Zero Agriculture Pathfinder, a joint initiative by the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) and CSIRO, is a practical guide to help farmers reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining productivity and competitiveness.
Farmers, managers, and advisers can use the tool to explore and adopt sustainable practices suited to their business mix and farm management goals.
“Pathfinder exemplifies the power of science and finance working hand-in-hand to help Australian farmers address climate challenges,” CEFC Head of Natural Capital Heechung Sung said.
“It empowers farmers with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions tailored to their operations, whether optimising fertiliser use or adopting methane-reducing pasture species.
“It includes CEFC-backed discounted finance-eligible activities, such as feed supplements, fertiliser optimisation, and carbon-sequestering plantings, also aims to bridge a critical gap for farmers keen to invest in sustainable practices.”
CSIRO Towards Net Zero lead Dr Michael Battaglia said: “Agriculture contributes billions to Australia’s GDP, but to stay competitive and meet climate targets, we need new ways to enable our farmers to act - both on farms and in markets.
“We must create pathways to help farmers deliver their low-emissions commodities into sustainability-focused supply chains. This needs to be a team game.
“By integrating environmental sustainability with financial viability, this collaboration helps to create a pathway for a prosperous, net zero agriculture sector.”
Pathfinder also equips farmers with the knowledge to establish an emissions baseline, a key step in sustainability reporting.
“Producers who can demonstrate their emissions reductions will have greater access to premium markets and competitive financing,” Ms Sung said.
“As global supply chains demand higher transparency, these baselines will maintain market access and secure new opportunities.”
Potential borrowers are encouraged to use Pathfinder for information on investments that might be eligible for CEFC-backed discounted finance.
For more information or to try out the Pathfinder tool, go to www.cefc.com.au/pathfinder
