New Zealand has unveiled plans to become the first country to charge farmers for the methane emissions produced by their cattle and sheep.
It has been proposed to be implemented from 2025.
Nearly half the country’s greenhouse gas emissions come from agriculture, which reflects the fact there are just over five million people and over 35 million sheep and cattle combined.
"There is no question that we need to cut the amount of methane we are putting into the atmosphere and an effective emissions pricing system for agriculture will play a key part in how we achieve that," James Shaw, New Zealand's climate change minister, commented.
There will be incentives for farmers who slash emissions via feed additives and planting trees may be used to offset emissions, BBC News reported.
The specific details are yet to be agreed upon, but the money raised is expected to be invested in research, development and advisory services for farmers, according to New Zealand’s environment ministry.