The Surprising Role of Cattle in Climate Research
FORT COLLINS — At Colorado State University’s agricultural research center, 40 cattle are not just lazing around; they are pivotal to solving climate change. Dr. Sara Place, an expert in feedlot systems, leads a study to measure methane emissions from these cattle, funded by a $1 million grant from Cargill.
The cattle are identified by numbers instead of names. For instance, a black steer tagged No. 2 leisurely enjoys a corn mixture, oblivious to his role in groundbreaking research. The facility is pristine, maintained by agriculture students, and dedicated to more than just raising beef.
Dr. Place explains that the cattle’s feed affects their methane output. Different ingredients in their diet can significantly alter the amount of methane produced during digestion. This research aims to find the optimal feed to reduce harmful emissions.
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has a Global Warming Potential 28 times higher than carbon dioxide. The United Nations notes that methane has been a major contributor to global warming since pre-industrial times. Understanding methane emissions from cattle is crucial for climate mitigation.
Inside the Science of Cattle Digestion
At the feedlot, No. 2 enters a chute to a machine designed to capture methane emissions. Inside, he finds alfalfa pellets. His digestion process, known as enteric fermentation, is responsible for methane production.
During fermentation, microbes in the cattle’s gut convert feed into methane. This gas is then released through burping, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Cargill seeks to determine the environmental impact of beef production and find ways to mitigate it.
The USDA’s 2019 study measured inputs like fuel and water in cattle production. While the study’s findings were consistent with other research, Cargill wants more empirical data on methane emissions to enhance industry practices.
Key points include:
- Measuring methane emissions from different diets
- Comparing new data with existing assumptions
- Using findings to reduce emissions industry-wide
Reducing Methane Through Diet
No. 2’s methane levels were measured even without a burp. The machine detected methane in his exhalations, influenced by his diet, which had been modified to reduce methane production.
Steam flaking corn, for example, makes starch more digestible, reducing methane output by 15%. Other dietary adjustments are also being tested to see how they impact emissions.
Initial results show that cattle on the CSU-developed diet emit 40% less methane compared to other diets. However, researchers need multiple samples to accurately represent emissions based on diet.
Cargill aims to reduce its global greenhouse gas emissions by 10% by 2025 and by 30% per ton of product sold by 2030. The CSU research is a crucial step towards achieving these goals.
Changing Perceptions of Beef’s Environmental Impact
Accurate data from CSU’s research can alter public and activist perceptions regarding the beef industry’s environmental impact. Activists have long criticized large ranching operations for contributing to global warming.
For instance, a ballot measure in Denver aims to ban slaughterhouses, highlighting the environmental impact of livestock farming. However, North American beef production is 35% more efficient than the global average in terms of emissions.
CSU’s research is also exploring better grazing management and regenerative farming practices to promote carbon sequestration and reduce food waste. These efforts align with Cargill’s BeefUp sustainability mission.
Ultimately, making methane-reducing diets accessible to ranchers could significantly lower industry emissions. Incentive programs might encourage ranchers to adopt new feeding strategies, leading to broader environmental benefits.
adelineprism
Interesting article, but how do you ensure the accuracy of methane measurements from cattle?
Olive
Does this mean No. 2 is a climate hero now? 😂
harleyinferno
Hats off to Dr. Sara Place and the team! Keep up the good work, folks!
trinityeclipse
This is great and all, but how cost-effective are these new diets compared to traditional ones?
kennedyelysium
I’m curious, are there any other animals being studied for their methane emissions?
Asher
Thank you, CSU! This is the kind of research we need to save our planet. 😊
Addison3
Are there any potential side effects on the cattle’s health from these new diets?
jason_journey
Wow, this is fascinating! How soon can we expect to see these methane-reducing diets available to ranchers?