Green House Gas Emissions and Mitigation Strategies for Sustainable Dairy Farming
T. Vijaya Nirmala *
College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mannuthy, Trissur-680651, Kerala, India and Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dr. YSR Horticultural University, Venkataramannagudem-534101, Andhra Pradesh, India.
S. Harikumar
College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mannuthy, Trissur-680651, Kerala, India.
Anu George
College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mannuthy, Trissur-680651, Kerala, India.
A. Devivaraprasad Reddy
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dr. YSR Horticultural University, Venkataramannagudem-534101, Andhra Pradesh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The global dairy industry is estimated to be worth billions of dollars, with India being the leading producer of dairy products. Milk is a vital source of nutrition, providing energy, protein, and essential micronutrients. It has been linked to various health benefits, such as improved bone health and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type-2 diabetes. However, the livestock industry also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. The carbon footprint of dairy products is measured by assessing the emissions of greenhouse gases throughout the production process. Methane emissions from enteric fermentation and manure management are the primary sources of emissions in the livestock sector. Strategies aimed at enhanced milk production, reducing animal mortality rates and enhancing reproductive performances can also help reduce emissions. To ensure long-term sustainability of the livestock production system, the Indian dairy cattle farming system must address key intervention areas such as feeding management, animal health and reproductive performance, and manure management to reduce its carbon footprint.
Keywords: Dairy farming, carbon footprint, global warming, life cycle assessment