Sea Forest welcomes development of new Australian Carbon Credit Unit method

Triabunna-based business Sea Forest has welcomed the federal government’s announcement that it would develop a new Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU) method for livestock producers who use methane-abating livestock feed additives.

It will replace the expired Beef Cattle Herd Management method and is being developed by Meat and Livestock Australia.

The Beef Cattle Herd Management method allowed beef producers to earn ACCUs by reducing the emissions intensity of beef production through improved herd management, rather than by reducing total cattle numbers.

The new proposed ACCU livestock method will build on the previous method to incorporate the latest science on methane-reducing feed additives and expand beyond pasture-based cattle to include feedlot cattle, dairy cattle, and sheep.

The Beef Cattle Herd Management method expired on September 30, 2025, after a decade of operation.

Sea Forest has been utilising Asparagopsis, a type of seaweed, to produce a livestock feed supplement that reduces methane emissions in cattle.

Company CEO and Co-Founder Sam Elsom said the inclusion of methane-abating livestock feed additives in the ACCU program was a game-changer for Australian producers and farmers.

“It acknowledges the significant contribution Australia's livestock industry can make towards the country's climate goals, while rewarding those who support innovation,” Mr Elsom said.

“SeaFeed not only reduces methane emissions, but research has shown that it can also benefit production outcomes.

“When combined with the additional revenue available through ACCUs, producers stand to benefit on both sides of the ledger.”

Mr Elsom said it was a win-win for farmers and the environment.

"As the economic case for adoption strengthens, we expect to see a step change in demand for SeaFeed across multiple livestock sectors.

“With 118,000 head of cattle currently under agreement, the new ACCU method materially strengthens the commercial pathway for broader adoption, making Australia’s multi‑million‑head cattle, sheep and dairy markets even more attainable for Sea Forest and SeaFeed.”

Agriculture Minister and Tasmanian MP Julie Collins said the new ACCU method would provide Australian farmers with a flexible and cost-effective way to reduce emissions, while also offering opportunities to improve yields and diversify on-farm income.

“Industry has signalled strong interest in replacing the Beef Cattle Herd Management method with a new method that recognises emerging methane reduction technologies across the broader livestock sector.

“Through this updated ACCU method, we have an opportunity to move toward a sector-wide livestock method that allows greater innovation in mitigation technologies and rewards farmers.

“More broadly, the government has committed over $2 billion to ensure farmers across the country can confidently face our climate future.”