New Zealand plans to put a price on sheep and cow burps (打嗝) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (排放). If the plan is passed, New Zealand will become the first country to tax (征税) farmers on each burp of their cattle, since the burps give out methane (甲烷) into the atmosphere.

“There is no question that we need to cut the amount of methane we are putting into the atmosphere, and an effective emissions pricing system for agriculture will play a key part in how we achieve that,” Climate Change Minister James Shaw said.

Animal agriculture is one of the leading causes of global warming. It is reportedly responsible for at least 14.5% of the world’s emissions. Moreover, cows are by far the biggest contributors. This is so because they produce 40% of global methane when they burp, fart (放屁) and produce waste. Also, methane is 80 times more warming than CO₂ although it’s shorter-lived in the atmosphere.

New Zealand, which has a population of five million people, has around 10 million cattle and 26 million sheep. “Almost half the country’s total greenhouse gas emissions come from agriculture, mainly methane,” the draft plan explained.

The “burp tax” is expected to take effect in 2025. Mr. Shaw wants farming to be more environmentally friendly. He also wants farmers to change the way they farm. He wants them to feed their animals on seaweed instead of grass. This will produce fewer emissions. Mr. Shaw also said farmers can reduce the tax they pay by planting more trees. Another suggestion is for cows to wear special masks.

New Zealand’s farmers support the government. They want to do their bit to help the environment.

【小题1】Why will cattle’s burps be taxed?

A．To raise more money.	B．To feed more cattle.
C．To limit cattle’s price.	D．To better the environment.

【小题2】Which is a fact about New Zealand according to the text?

A．Its cows produce 40% of global methane.

B．Its agriculture affects greenhouse gas emissions.

C．It is responsible for at least 14.5% of the world’s emissions.

D．There is 80 times more methane than CO2.

【小题3】What can farmers do to pay less tax according to Mr. Shaw?

A．Plant more trees.	B．Correct their way to farm.
C．Feed their animals on grass.	D．Wear special masks when farming.

【小题4】Which can be the best title of the text?

A．New Zealand reducing greenhouse gas emissions

B．New Zealand’s greenhouse emissions and animal farming

C．New Zealand introducing a new tax to help the environment

D．New Zealand’s farmers joining in the fight against climate change