Govt seeks views on methane-suppressing livestock feeds
24th August 2022
A UK-wide call for evidence is asking for information on the use of new types of animal feed products to reduce methane emissions from livestock.
UK governments are aiming to find out how farmers and agri-businesses can increase adoption of new feed products to support more sustainable protein production.
The consultation will consider the current role of feed additives within UK farming systems and the potential barriers that could prevent the introduction of methane suppressing feed products in both the near and long-term future.
Feed products with methane-inhibiting properties have shown potential in reducing GHG emissions, especially from housed cattle. These products may include ingredients such as methane production inhibitors, seaweeds, essential oils, organic acids, probiotics, and antimicrobials.
According to government figures, agriculture accounted for 10% of total UK greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2019, with methane accounting for approximately 54% of agricultural emissions.
Agricultural greenhouse gas emissions have reduced by 16% since 1990 (as of 2020) thanks to innovation and advances in technology. Government emissions and production statistics suggest that since 1990 we are producing a litre of milk with 21% less GHG emissions. Efficiency gains in dairy farming mean that we are now producing 11% more milk than we were in 2000 with 24% fewer cows.
Farming minister, Victoria Prentis said: “We’ve set out ambitious targets to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and it’s right to consider how we can help farmers produce food sustainably and reduce emissions from agriculture further.
“Well managed livestock can provide various environmental benefits and meat and dairy can both be an important part of a balanced diet. Through this call for evidence we’ll better understand the promising role emerging feed additive technologies for cattle could play and how government can help drive its development.”
The agricultural industry, scientists and wider public are being invited to share their views. The consultation can be accessed here: https://consult.defra.gov.uk/agriclimate/methane-supressing-feed-products/
