Understanding GHGs on Irish farms

In Ireland, agriculture currently contributes 37% of the total GHGs emitted. GHG emissions on Irish farms come primarily from methane belched by cattle and sheep, fertiliser use, animal excrement and diesel.

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What are the main GHGs relevant to agriculture?

There are three main GHGs: carbon dioxide (CO2); methane (CH4); and, nitrous oxide (N2O). While CO2 is released mostly from burning fossil fuels, for agriculture, the main GHGs are methane (65%) and nitrous oxide (30%).

Find out more about GHGs and target GHG mitigation measures for agriculture