Could Montana Farmers and Ranchers be Subject to a ‘Fart Tax?’

Global warming has been the topic of many debates over the last decade. Environmentalists are forming ranks to go to battle against industries they feel are destroying the planet. They are going head to head against large corporations that are polluting water and the air. But, not only are corporations under attack. There has been a big punch recently for individuals to lower their carbon footprint, campaigns for individuals to try and produce less pollution or harmful gasses that can destroy the atmosphere.

There have been many theories on what may be creating the most greenhouse gasses on our planet, causing the average temperature of the planet to increase, which causes ice caps to melt and ocean levels to rise. Some say it is the exhaust from coal-burning electrical plants and factories. Others say it is the exhaust from the billions of cars fossil fuel-burning cars on the roads. But some also think it is the excessive burping and farting from livestock that is to blame for the increase in global warming.

Farmers and ranchers in New Zealand are protesting a proposed "fart tax" on their livestock.

According to euronews.com:

The farming sector is responsible for more than half of New Zealand's emissions, and the levy hopes to contribute to the goal of being climate neutral by 2050 and reducing methane emissions by 10 percent by 2030. The sector is one of the last sectors in New Zealand to pay for emissions. The country has had an emissions trading system since 2008, but farmers have not had to participate until now.

Could Montana farmers and ranchers someday see a similar tax on their livestock "emissions?" It is highly unlikely. But, it would sure be an interesting debate to watch happen on the Senate floor. Just imagine the endless amount of fart jokes that lawmakers would tell. I'm cracking up just thinking about it.