Internal government documents call into question agriculture sector’s ability reduce emissions by 25 per cent by 2030

Farm Zero C research project is also testing methods to reduce methane, nitrous oxide and ammonia output

The Farm Zero C project aims for a huge reduction in dairy farm emissions by 2027 and if successful, could pave the way for farmers to maintain their herds while also meeting carbon reduction targets

John Roche from Co Kerry is advising the government in Wellington on technologies including a possible methane vaccine for cattle and sheep

The compromise target is likely to be agreed after backbench rural TDs threatened to resign their party whips, but it could be raised if methane-inhibiting technologies prove viable

A cap and trade system on methane levels and retirement scheme are among the measures proposed

The threat posed by the climate crisis means that Irish farmers will need to agree to a cut of close to 30 per cent in emissions

Ireland has committed to cut its methane emissions by 10 per cent — less than half the global pledge