Beef and pork could become significantly more expensive, as a tax on cattle and pig farming is being prepared
High emissions of the potent greenhouse gas, methane, from cattle and pig farming are increasingly becoming a thorn in the side of politicians and environmentalists who are striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, Denmark aims to be the first country in the European Union to introduce a special tax. This could make beef and pork more expensive for end consumers.
Denmark could soon become the first country within the European Union to introduce a fee for emissions produced by cattle and pigs. These animals are among the largest producers of methane in livestock production, a very potent greenhouse gas. In addition to the new tax, the country plans to implement other measures, such as extensive tree planting.
According to Minister Jeppe Bruus, who was tasked with negotiating the new regulations, the Danish government has reached an agreement with other parties and associations on a new comprehensive framework agreement to support the environment and climate by 2030. The new agreement aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 1.8 million tons.
However, the new agreement will not only apply to emissions produced by animals, but will also focus on other agricultural emissions, such as those arising from the production and use of fertilizers. The tax the country introduces is intended to contribute to reducing these emissions, thereby achieving the goal of climate neutrality by 2045.
If such a regulation is implemented, some plant and animal-based products are expected to rise in price. The tax that producers would pay is expected to reach around 40 euros (approximately 1,010 CZK) per ton of CO2 equivalent by 2030. By 2035, this amount is expected to increase to up to 100 euros (about 2,500 CZK). Although the country plans to provide farmers with tax breaks to reduce their emissions, it is expected that the new tax will be reflected in the final prices of food.
Methane emissions from livestock production represent a significant share of total greenhouse gas emissions. Methane is considered the second most significant greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide, with a much greater heat-trapping capability compared to CO2. According to a study published in the scientific journal Animal Frontiers, global livestock production contributes approximately 18% to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions.
