Government Report Highlights Rising Emissions from New Zealand's Dairy Sector

According to a government report, emissions fr om New Zealand's intensive dairy farming surged in 2024, even as overall agricultural emissions saw a decline. This sector, primarily led by companies like Fonterra, is now responsible for 26% of agricultural emissions in the country, marking it as a significant contributor to climate change.

The report identifies increased milk production and the use of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers as primary factors driving these emissions. Despite efforts to reduce emissions across other agricultural sectors, these gains have been overshadowed by the growth in the dairy industry.

Fonterra has been named New Zealand's leading climate polluter for four consecutive years, with a reported 2.2% increase in its climate emissions in 2025. This rise is equated to adding 100,000 cars on the roads for a year, highlighting the environmental challenges posed by the industry.

In response to the report, Greenpeace Aotearoa has called for an end to dairy expansions, arguing that the pursuit of profit by the dairy sector threatens the planet's future. The organization emphasizes the need for a transition to regenerative and ecological farming practices.

One significant policy change in 2025 allowed for the expansion of the dairy herd, particularly in the Canterbury region, wh ere 30,000 cows are expected to be added. This expansion is anticipated to further increase dairy emissions, raising concerns about the long-term environmental impacts.