NESP TWQ Project 2.2 - A tradable permit scheme for cost effective reduction of nitrogen runoff in the sugarcane catchments of the Great Barrier Reef, 2015-2016 (GU)

Updated: 2026-06-25

This project will undertake a scoping study to design a pilot nitrogen trading scheme for key cane growing catchments draining into the Great Barrier Reef Lagoon. The study will synthesise the current understanding of nitrogen dynamics, local expertise and on-ground practices from the cane industry, with lessons from successful nutrient trading programs elsewhere. Tradable permit simulation will estimate the cost effectiveness of the scheme for reducing nitrogen loads into the GBR, and the financial impact on sugarcane growers. Core enablers will be identified and key steps for implementation will be formulated, including governance structure and monitoring mechanisms.