NFU Scotland has responded to the Committee on Climate Change’s new advice on Scottish carbon budgets with a clear message: farmers are ready to lead on climate action, but arbitrary reductions but arbitrary reductions in livestock and in meat and dairy consumption are not the answer.
The Union welcomed a more balanced tone in the CCC report, including recognition of the role that low-carbon technologies, peatland restoration and soil management can play in driving down emissions. However, the proposed 26% reduction in cattle and sheep numbers by 2035 remains deeply concerning and, according to NFUS, would devastate hill and upland farms that operate on already narrow margins.
NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon said:
“There’s progress in recognising the contribution farmers and land managers can make to reaching Net Zero, but we must be crystal clear: slashing livestock numbers is not the solution. Scottish agriculture is already among the most climate-efficient in the world with many farmers already adopting new technologies, renewable energy and nature-friendly practices. With the right backing, we can go further but that journey must be fair, practical and properly supported.”
The Union emphasised that Net Zero doesn’t mean zero emissions, and that Scotland’s farming sector is uniquely placed to balance emissions through both reductions and natural carbon sequestration including in grasslands, hedgerows, soils, peatlands, and well-managed woodlands.
“We need policy that rewards sequestration as well as efficiency,” Mr Connon added. “Farmers are ready to lead on both fronts, but that contribution must be properly valued. Sequestration is not a loophole, it’s a key part of the solution.”
NFUS also warned against using Scotland’s land to offset emissions from other parts of the UK, calling instead for locally grounded, sector-specific pathways to Net Zero.
“Scotland must not become the carbon sink for the rest of the UK,” said Mr Connon. “We want to play our part but not carry the burden for others.”
Beyond emissions reduction, NFU Scotland highlighted the growing urgency of supporting climate adaptation, with farmers already facing acute pressures from water scarcity, extreme weather and supply chain disruption.
“Adaptation is no longer a future issue – it’s a now issue,” Mr Connon said. “We need meaningful investment in resilience to safeguard Scotland’s food security while continuing to deliver on climate and nature targets.”
NFU Scotland is urging the Scottish Government to give farmers the certainty and long-term policy direction they need to invest, adapt and lead the transition to Net Zero. Clear signals on future support, consistent messaging, and timely decisions are essential to unlock the sector’s full potential. Without that, ambition will stall. The Union will continue to work with government over the summer to ensure the updated Climate Change Plan empowers, rather than penalises, Scottish agriculture.
