daniel chigunwe
Ashton Mutyavaviri
IN the battle to tame the harsh effects of climate change, experts have encouraged farmers to adopt sustainable livestock production methods, which can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In a recent X (formerly twitter) post, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) said the livestock sector was the main contributor to global methane, which led to global warming.
FAO said: “Better management practices in feed, husbandry, grazing, manure is key to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock.”
FAO added that implementing practices that enhance animal health and welfare could lead to more efficient production systems and reduced emissions that include optimising feed quality and nutrition, providing proper housing and ventilation and implementing responsible waste management techniques.
FAO also urged farmers to do precision feeding as a way of reducing emissions.
“Precision feeding involves optimising the nutritional content and composition of animal diets, reducing the amount of feed required per unit of growth or milk production. The approach minimises methane emissions from enteric fermentation in ruminant animals such as cattle and sheep,” FAO observed.
FAO added that proper management of livestock waste was crucial for preventing the release of methane and nitrous oxide gases, adding that composting and proper storage techniques could minimise nitrogen losses and subsequent emissions.
It also challenged farmers to practise silvopasture systems, that is the integration of trees, forage and livestock and had both environmental and economic advantages.
“Integrating trees with livestock systems can have multiple benefits. Trees act as carbon sinks, sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide, while also providing shade for animals and improving soil health. These systems are intensively managed for both forest products and forage, providing both short- and long-term income sources.
“Embracing sustainable practices in livestock production have the capacity to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, preserve biodiversity and ensure a more resilient planet for future generations. The time to act is now and the potential benefits are immense,” FAO explained.
Livestock farming has for long been associated with significant environmental impacts, but innovative approaches and practices are now offering hope for a more sustainable future.
Domestic animals provide income and employment to farmers, agricultural service providers and other actors involved in the value chain.
Climate smart livestock farming is anchored on reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing resilience and promoting national food security and development goals.
Government made it its top priority to safeguard the adoption and continuous use of sustainable livestock production methods, as the country pushes to ensure food security on the backdrop of unrelenting climate change challenges militating against sustainable agriculture.
Online Reporter