Recycled CO2 used to enhance growth of vegetables to be exempt of carbon tax – Doherty

Glasshouse growers of quality tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers who reused the CO2 generated from glasshouse heating are set to secure a carbon tax rebate, a Fine Gael Senator has said.

Leader of Seanad Éireann, Senator Regina Doherty, said, “While visiting glasshouse horticultural growers across North County Dublin, it was brought to my attention that these growers are paying carbon tax for carbon dioxide that they are reusing from the heating system to enhance growth.

“We should be commending the growers of this top-quality food who are using this cropping system and not contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

“Glasshouse horticultural growers use either natural gas or liquified petroleum gas to heat the glasshouses at a constant 20°C. Over 70% of the CO2 is produced while burning the gas to create heat and this is pumped into the glasshouse using a fan. The plants then absorbs the CO2, and it increases the yield.

“The capture of CO2 emissions to optimise plant growth points is one of the most sustainable uses of energy. Currently these growers pay €33.50 per tonne of CO2, yet none of it is being released into the atmosphere.

“It’s a common-sense solution and I’m delighted that the Minister for Finance will be considering this amendment to the Finance Bill 2023. Fine Gael is backing business, backing growers, and backing rural Ireland.

“If we are serious about reaching our climate targets outlined in the Programme for Government, then growers should not be penalised for being as carbon efficient as they possibly can. These businesses are some of the most climate friendly in the country,” concluded Senator Doherty.