L.ADP.2032 - Carbon EDGE training package and pilot delivery

Summary

The Carbon EDGE training package was developed to support the Australian red meat industry's commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 (CN30) and address barriers such as confusion around carbon concepts and a lack of tailored training resources. Carbon EDGE was designed to empower producers with essential knowledge and skills to identify carbon reduction and sequestration strategies effectively.

The target demographic for Carbon EDGE comprises sheep, cattle and goat producers and advisors across Australia, with content tailored to meet the specific needs of northern, rangelands, and southern production systems.

The training package will enhance participants' knowledge and skills in carbon management, enabling them to integrate these practices into their business operations via an action plan, achieving profitability alongside environmental sustainability.

Objectives

Development of Carbon EDGE training package: Achieved with high satisfaction – participants rated their satisfaction at 8.56/10, and knowledge improvement was marked from a baseline, increasing by 7.61%.

Engagement in pilot workshops: Exceeded the initial target of engaging 30 producers, by engaging 85 producers and 22 industry professionals from over 80 businesses in six pilot workshops across diverse Australian regions.

Deliverer training and accreditation: Successfully trained 13 Carbon EDGE deliverers, who are equipped to disseminate the training across different regions, aligning with the delivery standards set by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).

Key findings

Comprehensive training package: Successful development and piloting of the Carbon EDGE training package, with workshop materials including manuals, workbooks slide decks and deliverer guides.

High engagement and satisfaction:  Engagement of 85 producers, surpassing the target by nearly 300%. The participants reported high satisfaction and demonstrable improvements in their understanding of carbon management strategies.

Benefits to industry

Carbon EDGE has provided the red meat industry with a targeted educational tool aligned to the CN30 commitment. The training facilitates a better understanding of carbon reduction strategies and their integration into livestock business models, which can lead to improved environmental outcomes and business profitability. The project also supports the red meat industry's CN30 target by equipping producers with the skills necessary to contribute to this commitment effectively.

MLA action

Carbon EDGE is now being rolled out nationally. Check the MLA website for workshops being offered in you're region mla.com.au/extension-training-and-tools/carbon-edge.

Future research

Continued refinement and updating of the Carbon EDGE materials are recommended to keep pace with anticipated advancements in carbon farming practices and technologies. It is recommended that subsequent iterations of the project include advanced modules to cover emerging technologies and strategies in carbon management. Additionally, establishing a peer support network for trained producers could enhance the implementation success of the strategies learned during workshops, thereby sustaining momentum towards the CN30 commitment.