Increase of 2.2% in 2023 is driven by the growth of the cattle herd, according to data from the sector’s estimation system
The agricultural sector in Brazil recorded, in 2023, an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. The growth marks the 4th consecutive year of increase in this index. The (Greenhouse Gas Emission Estimation System), of the Climate Observatory, released the data on Thursday (7.Nov.2024).
Agricultural activities emitted 631.2 million tons of CO₂e (carbon dioxide equivalent), an increase of 2.2% compared to 2022. The increase was mainly driven by the growth of the cattle herd in the country.
Methane, the main gas emitted, came from enteric fermentation, totaling 355.1 million tons of CO₂e. Brazil, one of the 103 signatory countries of the Global Methane Agreement established at the Glasgow COP in 2021, seeks to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030.
Reduction in total emissions
Despite the increase in emissions from the agricultural sector, Brazil reduced its total greenhouse gas emissions by 12% in 2023, reaching 2.3 billion tons of CO₂e. This decrease was mainly due to the reduction in deforestation in the Amazon. However, other biomes showed an increase in emissions.
The conversion of forests to other uses was responsible for 46% of total emissions.
Rising trend in emissions
Since 2018, the agricultural sector has recorded consecutive increases in its emissions. This growth results from the increase in cattle numbers and the use of limestone and synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, which accompany the expansion of agricultural production.
Thus, the sector faces a paradox: it is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases and also one of the most affected by the climate crisis.
Measures for mitigation
Gabriel Quintana, Science Analyst at Imaflora (Climate Institute of Forestry and Agricultural Management and Certification), highlighted the importance of aligning emissions mitigation with increased efficiency and productivity.
“The adoption of practices that reduce methane emissions and promote carbon sequestration in the soil is essential”said Quintana. He suggested measures such as the use of non-fossil fertilizers, the implementation of diversified management systems, such as crop-livestock-forest integration and agroforestry systems, the early slaughter of beef cattle, in addition to the adoption of soil and soil regenerative practices. water.
