Modelling suggests resource reuse can strengthen resilience alongside broader land-use changes.
Circular approaches to feed and energy could reduce Ireland’s reliance on imported farm inputs, according to research published in Communications Earth & Environment on 5 October.
Daniel Henn and colleagues compared energy-focused and feed-focused strategies across a business-as-usual pathway and three net-zero pathways for Ireland’s land sector. They assessed 12 sustainability and resilience indicators.
The energy strategy emphasised domestic materials for anaerobic digestion. The feed strategy sought to reduce overseas inputs to livestock systems. The modelling found modest additional emissions benefits alongside stronger gains in reducing import dependence.
A model, not a farm trial
The study does not demonstrate that the same changes will be profitable on a particular South African farm. Its results depend on Irish land use, resources and scenario assumptions.
The researchers also conclude that circularity cannot replace the wider structural changes needed to meet climate goals. The useful distinction for readers is between making a system less exposed to imported inputs and proving that it has reached net zero.