Farmers turn to seaweed in attempt to reduce methane emissions from livestock
Source: dairynews.today
As the world races to curb climate change, scientists are taking aim at cows, a surprisingly potent source of greenhouse gases.
In the quest to combat climate change, a novel approach involving seaweed as livestock feed is showing promise in reducing methane emissions. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, with dairy and beef cattle being significant contributors. A trial conducted at the Straus Dairy Farm in Marin County, California, tested the use of asparagopsis taxiformis, a red seaweed, in cattle feed.
This experiment, involving about a half percent of the feed being seaweed, resulted in methane emission reductions of up to 80-90% in some cows. This additive, while seemingly small, disrupts the methane-producing process in cows by preventing the conversion of CO2 and H2 into methane.
However, regulatory challenges in the U.S. could delay widespread adoption, despite successful endorsements and faster implementation in places like Australia. Scientists are hopeful that this small dietary change could significantly impact global methane levels if adopted more broadly.
This experiment, involving about a half percent of the feed being seaweed, resulted in methane emission reductions of up to 80-90% in some cows. This additive, while seemingly small, disrupts the methane-producing process in cows by preventing the conversion of CO2 and H2 into methane.
However, regulatory challenges in the U.S. could delay widespread adoption, despite successful endorsements and faster implementation in places like Australia. Scientists are hopeful that this small dietary change could significantly impact global methane levels if adopted more broadly.
