Carbon footprint reduction strategies in dairy and beef production
Author(s): Pooja Nitharwal, Ishwar Bhabor and Rahul Jakhar
Abstract: The dairy and beef sectors play a vital role in global food security but also contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Major emissions including methane, nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide arise from enteric fermentation, manure handling, feed production and overall farm operations. Tools such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) are used to evaluate the carbon footprint of these systems, although results can differ depending on farm practices and local environmental conditions. A range of mitigation strategies is available, including nutritional approaches such as feed additives, improved feeding practices, advanced manure and waste management technologies and precision livestock farming (PLF) systems that support better health, fertility and production efficiency. Together, these strategies can reduce emissions while helping maintain productive, sustainable and profitable dairy and beef production systems.
