Agricultural activities, including the production of livestock, result in greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. Beef cattle, in particular, release methane (CH4) as a result of the...
Description
Agricultural activities, including the production of livestock, result in greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. Beef cattle, in particular, release methane (CH4) as a result of the digestion of feed materials in the rumen. These emissions are called enteric emissions and are a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural activities. Methane and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions are also generated from manure storage and handling within beef cattle operations. These emissions are called manure emissions. This protocol for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in fed cattle addresses digestion and manure storage/handling sources of livestock greenhouse gas emissions. The protocol allows users to quantify greenhouse gas reductions using scientifically valid methodology and emission factors resulting from alterations in feeding strategies and other technologies in the finishing stages of beef cattle at feedlots in Alberta.