The livestock sector is a major driver of climate change, contributing more than 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This alarming statistic has prompted researchers and innovators to seek effective solutions to mitigate emissions from cattle and other livestock. As consumers become more aware of climate change, the industry is facing more pressure to be a part of the solution and implement sustainable practices.
In response to this growing crisis, recent initiatives have sprung up around the globe to combat food wastage. flickr Creative Commons So the recently-announced Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund is focusing on the state’s dairy and beef industry – and experts want you to know why. Additionally, increasing attention has been paid to the environmental consequences of conventional livestock production methods. We desperately need to look at new, creative ways to solve a problem like this.
One of the most interesting trends to emerge is from an Australian startup with just a few employees that’s rolled out a new product called the “lick block.” This novel, seaweed-based innovation is intended to be ingested by cows with the goal of reducing the methane emitted through digestion by up to 80%. Using certain new or introduced ingredients in cattle feed can profoundly alter the digestive process. This change results in a significant decrease in methane emissions.
According to the startup’s research, this lick block can have a profound impact on farmers. It enables them to get a step closer to more sustainable livestock production. Making smart decisions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is critical. Finally, it improves the overall health and productivity of animals. This double dividend is why it could be such an appealing solution for farmers who want to be profitable while still being good stewards of the land.
In-teraction testing has indicated that the lick block can be seamlessly incorporated into current feeding practices without interrupting livestock routines. Additionally, it is an easily adoptable solution for farmers with no drastic changes to their operations required. That last point makes it a sustainable no-brainer for just about anyone. The startup has so far been piloting with local Australian farms and is looking to take its solution global.
From lick blocks to cell phones, technological innovations are shaking things up in the livestock industry. Simultaneously, there’s an increasing interest in more holistic solutions to improve livestock production practices. This will involve things like more effective pasture management and animal diets, as well as selective breeding programs to reduce emissions. Industry stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers must work together to create the necessary momentum to continue these changes.
Governments across the world are starting to realize the livestock sector’s environmental harm. Policies in several countries are encouraging sustainable farming practices to provide incentives for farmers to switch to greener practices. These policies are making progress toward a more sustainable food system. Along the way, they address the unprecedented crisis of our time, climate change.