Land use change

Land use change reduces emissions if the new land use produces less emissions than the previous land use. In general, this is done by reducing the number of ruminant animals and producing a non-animal product such as an arable or horticultural crop, timber, or carbon in the form of trees on part of the whole of the farm.

Changing land use (partial or whole) is a significant decision with multiple factors to consider. 

It can be difficult to access specific advice on land use change, particularly partial land use change. Specific industry bodies may have some information (e.g. Horticulture NZ, or the Foundation for Arable Research). Speaking to farmers who have implemented some land use change can also help. Some consultants can provide advice in this area or may be able to help put you in touch with the appropriate experts.

Collective action or partnerships between sectors and farmers with different land uses may also assist in managing emissions by sharing offsets, for example.

The gains will vary between farmers, depending on the nature of the land use change, the level of the emissions prior to the change, and the system operating after the change. 

Research has shown that achieving a significant reduction in emissions requires land use change (other than forestry) to be done at a reasonable scale, e.g. 10-15% of the farm. This order of magnitude means that good analysis and planning is required prior to any change.

There are many factors to consider when changing land use, including:

• Impact on profitability
• Market volatility
• Labour constraints
• Climatic risks
• Regulatory requirements, e.g. resource consents

Good planning and good advice is essential to help reduce risk and achieve the best outcomes for you and your farming business.

Many new crops do not have an existing value chain, and again, good analysis and planning is required prior to development. For example, while you could well grow the crop, where and to who will you sell it?

For more information on changing land use, see:

• The NZAGRC 'Future Farm Systems' research programme and a related webinar in November 2022
• This 2023 report from Lincoln University on oats, pulses and chestnuts