Denmark will become the first country to tax livestock farmers for the greenhouse gases produced by their cows, sheep, and pigs, starting in 2030.
The aim is to reduce Danish greenhouse gas emissions by 70% from 1990 levels by 2030, according to Taxation Minister Jeppe Bruus.
The Associated Press reports that as of 2030, Danish livestock farmers will be taxed 300 kroner ($43) per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2030. The tax will increase to 750 kroner ($108) by 2035. However, because of an income tax deduction of 60%, the actual cost per ton will start at 120 kroner ($17.3) and increase to 300 kroner by 2035.
Taxation Minister Jeppe Bruus stated that this tax is a significant step toward Denmark becoming climate neutral by 2045. Denmark hopes other nations will follow its example, he added.
New Zealand had proposed a similar tax, set to take effect in 2025, but it was repealed following criticism from farmers and a shift in government.
The tax proposal is expected to pass in the Danish parliament, where there is broad support for the measure.
As of June 2022, Denmark had approximately 1.48 million cows.
