European governments have turned their attention to the farming industry, with reports that the Irish government is considering reducing its cattle herds by 200,000 cows over the next three years to meet climate targets.
Separately, in another apparent effort to combat nitrogen pollution, the European Union has approved a Dutch plan to allocate $1.6 billion to buy livestock companies, Reuters reported.
Farm advocate Kacy Atkinson told Cowboy State Daily that the conversation about industry emissions does not consider the beneficial impacts of livestock on the environment and climate.
Atkinson noted that cattle contribute to drought resistance, soil health, and reduction of forest fires. He also noted that before the introduction of cattle to North America, thousands of buffalo roamed the plains.
Both cows and buffalo are ruminants, which produce methane emissions through their digestive systems. Atkinson emphasized that methane emissions from ruminant animals is not a new phenomenon.
The agricultural expert also explained that livestock have a positive effect on plant life. Ruminant animals are essential for grazing pastures, breaking them down through their digestive systems, and fertilizing the soil.
Through proper management of cattle grazing, cattle help plant growth. The methane emitted by livestock eventually breaks down into carbon dioxide and water in the atmosphere, and plants use the carbon dioxide to grow and return carbon to the soil through their roots.
Atkinson also noted that livestock offer additional climate benefits that are often overlooked. When the ground cracks, it releases carbon into the air. Cattle walking on the soil help to compact it, trapping carbon in the soil.
A study conducted by the University of Florida revealed that between 10% and 30% of the carbon stored in the world is found under the feet of American cattle.
In addition to being a source of food, cattle contribute to the production of numerous by-products used in various industries. Replacing all the benefits derived from livestock would be a significant challenge.
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