British Cows to be Given Methane Blockers to Cut Emissions

Did you know cows are one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions? Globally, cows and other farm animals are responsible for about 14% of human-induced climate emissions. The UK wants to change this by exploring the possibility of giving its 9.4 million cows “methane blockers” to reduce their emissions and help achieve the country’s climate goals.

Source: WION/Youtube

Most methane cows emit from belching, not flatulence, as commonly thought. The UK government’s net zero growth strategy, published last week, expects high-efficacy methane-suppressing products to enter the market by 2025. If these products prove effective, the government could mandate farmers use them in cattle feed.

The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) is open to the idea, with deputy president Tom Bradshaw stating that the evidence suggests these products could be useful. He acknowledges that more research is needed to understand the impact on the cows’ diet efficiency but believes it’s an avenue worth investigating to reduce methane emissions.

Although this would be a step in the right direction, we know that this will not solve all of our problems. The fact remains that reducing meat or dairy products is the best and sure shot for the environment, your health, and the animals. Check out this calculator that tells you how many animals, gallons of water, and carbon emissions you can save by not eating meat. 

Currently, methane-suppressing products are being trialed in the UK, but results regarding their effectiveness are still pending. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is responsible for licensing animal feeds. It would have to carry out robust risk assessments on the additives’ impacts on animal health and welfare, food safety risks, the risk to workers, wider environmental risks, and product efficacy before approving them for use.

Some environmental groups remain skeptical about the methane blocker plan, arguing that it doesn’t address the major environmental issues associated with the beef and dairy industries. It is important to recognize that while this initiative is a step in the right direction, it does not solve the problem. The only way to reduce climate impact is by reducing our consumption of meat and dairy products.

The world’s obsession with beef, pork, and processed chicken has reached a tipping point. The livestock sector is responsible for more greenhouse gas emissions than the entire transportation sector combined. The UK just set a goal to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, insisting less meat consumption is key. By reducing the number of animal products we use, a radical shift in Climate change can be achieved. See how often you can substitute plant-based ingredients for meat and dairy. Be sure to give the trusty Food Monster app a download for endless ideas on vegan meals!

Choosing to eat vegan and live a vegan lifestyle does not harm animals, is better for your health, and doesn’t Support these cruel industries!

Solution Not Pollution Sweatshirt by Tiny Rescue: Climate Collection

Related Content:

• The Biden Administration Announces Methane Emission Restrictions to Meet 2030 Goal
• Landfills in Four Cities Emit As Much Methane as Two Million Cars, New Study Finds
• Methane Leak From Russian Coal Mine May Be the Biggest Leak the World Has Ever Seen
• Burp-Catching Mask Invented For Cows to Reduce Methane Emissions
• New UN Report Highlights Importance of Reducing Methane Emissions

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