Agricultural Breakthrough Technology 5 Factsheet: Reduced Methane Emissions From Livestock

Reducing methane emissions from livestock: A focus on reducing methane emissions from the livestock sector, improving sustainability

1.3 billion people rely on livestock for their livelihoods and food security worldwide. In 2020, this livestock emitted 136 million tonnes of methane (CH4), accounting for 30% of total global CH4 emissions. Livestock-related CH4 emissions are mainly released through belching (enteric fermentation) in ruminant animals, with manure responsible for approximately 12% of these emissions.In more intensive production, such as on Californian dairy farms, manure can contribute an even greater proportion. Addressing CH4 emissions from both enteric fermentation and manure is crucial for more sustainable livestock production. Currently, livestock-related methane emissions are 50% from high-income countries and 50% from lower-income countries, but that this will shift to be two-thirds from lower-income countries as demand for animal-sourced foods increases in these localities