Major cuts of greenhouse gas emissions from livestock within reach

Abstract

This study, commissioned by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, estimates that altering current practices and using existing technologies in the livestock sector could reduce its greenhouse gas outputs by up to 30 percent. The study’s estimates, which constitute the most comprehensive of their kind to date, conclude that 7.1 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent are emitted by livestock supply chains annually, contributing to 14.5 percent of global human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. Emissions primarily result from feed production, digestion by livestock, and the decomposition of manure. Reduction strategies emphasize improving practices without altering production systems and involve a range of policies, incentives, and on-the-ground implementation focused on promoting knowledge transfer, financial incentives, and the integration of development objectives within mitigation strategies. – AI-generated abstract.