The Deputy Prime Minister last week flagged excluding agriculture industries from 2050 climate targets.
“Well if that's what it takes, well that's what it takes, but we're not going to hurt regional Australia, we're not going to hurt those wonderful people who've put food on our table,” he said.
Ms Cohen rebuked his comments, instead calling for support.
“Red meat industry body Meat & Livestock Australia is already committed to net zero by 2030 and the National Farmers’ Federation last year backed a net zero by 2050 target,” she said.
“Far from needing to be left out of a national net zero target, farmers want funding for research and development so they can accurately measure their emissions, reduce them and continue to compete in a low-carbon global economy.”
Farmers for Climate Action deputy chair, agricultural scientist and farmer Anika Molesworth agreed.
“Facing more frequent and severe droughts, floods and bushfires, Australian farmers are on the frontlines of climate change in this country,” Dr Molesworth said.
“Farmers are also keenly aware that the global economy is increasingly moving towards a low-carbon future, where trade barriers and carbon tariffs will soon be in place.
“In that environment, high-emitting countries risk being left behind.”
Dr Molesworth said the Australian agricultural industry should be working towards reaching net zero by 2030 and in doing so giving itself an edge in global markets.
“Acting on climate change also presents a tremendous opportunity for regional Australia to benefit from the creation of new jobs in clean energy generation, manufacturing and ecosystem restoration work.
“Rather than being omitted from a national target of net zero by 2050, Australian farmers are calling out for extra funding for research and development, so that they can reach net zero quickly and continue to provide high quality food and fibre to the world.”
