Modelling climate change impacts on livestock production

Publication date: 24/07/2023
Extent: 48 pages

Contributions by: Ryan G. McGuire, Shannon M. McLaughlin, Tanisha L. Waring, Kayley D. Barnes, Sharon A. Huws and Nigel. D. Scollan, Queen’s University Belfast, UK

Chapter synopsis:

As other sectors continue to decarbonise, achieving climate change targets is particularly challenging for agriculture. This is primarily the result of livestock production systems (LPS), namely intensive ruminant production systems. LPS account for ~14.5 percent of all anthropogenic GHG emissions, with cattle alone accounting for 62% of this total. After outlining their crucial role within global food security, economic growth, employment, and society, this chapter argues the need for rapid implementation of climate mitigations for LPS. More specifically, it places focus on two of the most crucial mitigation measures available for LPS, enteric methane mitigation (such as breeding and dietary interventions) and carbon sequestration and storage to deliver net zero LPS.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2022.0115.09