Animal production and the "greenhouse gases"

C.S.W. Reid

Department of Physiology and Anatomy, Massey University, Palmerston North

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1990, 50: 443-448

Attention is drawn to developments in the public perception of animal farming which have the potential to adversely affect the animal industry in the future. These developments, which are occurring around the world, stem from review of ethical aspects of animal farming and from concern at the ecological impact of animal farming. Of particular concern is the emission of greenhouse gases - especially methane - by ruminants. This paper discusses measures by which these emissions could be reduced, and how national policy decisions regarding greenhouse gas emissions on farms may be reached. Opportunities for this Society are pointed out.

Keywords: NZSAPAB; Ethics; future of ruminant farming; greenhouse gases; methane; ruminant methanogenesis

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Last Updated 25-01-1997