Science fiction
OPINION: Last week's announcement of Prime Minister’s new Science and Technology Advisory Council hasn’t gone down too well in the science community.
OPINION: On tackling methane emissions, global animal health giant DSM will be hoping for a more sympathetic reception from the new Government when it comes to Bovaer, its feed additive that reduces methane emissions in livestock.
While DSM recently received approval from the Environmental Protection Authority that Bovaer can be used as a feed additive, it’s registration still hasn’t been confirmed. At the same time Bovaer has been registered and sold by DSM in many countries including Australia.
The previous Government has come under criticism from farming leaders for the delay in approving Bovaer.
According to the EPA, DSM applied in 2021 to import or manufacture a substance (Bovaer) containing 10-25% of 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) – a chemical that is new to New Zealand.
DSM says 3-NOP can reduce methane emissions from ruminant animals, including cows, sheep and goats, by 30%.
The Good Carbon Farm has partnered with Tolaga Bay Heritage Charitable Trust to deliver its first project in Tairāwhiti Gisborne.
Education union NZEI Te Riu Roa says that while educators will support the Government’s investment in learning support, they’re likely to be disappointed that it has been paid for by defunding expert teachers.
The Government says it is sharpening its focus and support for the food and fibre industry in Budget 2025.
A European Union regulation ensuring that the products its citizens consume do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation worldwide threatens $200m of New Zealand beef and leather exports.
A long-acting, controlled- release capsule designed to protect ewes from internal parasites during the lambing period is back on the market following a comprehensive reassessment.
Healthcare appears to be the big winner in this year's budget as agriculture and environment miss out.