Cornell University studies cow burps to cut dairy methane emissions

Cornell University has established a $2 million facility to study cow emissions, specifically focusing on methane released through burps. This facility is unique in the U.S. as it provides comprehensive data on the exact amount of gas emitted by cows over extended periods. The urgency to reduce methane emissions is heightened by the fact that livestock contributes significantly to global emissions, prompting the dairy and beef industries to explore feed additives as a potential solution. Natural products like seaweed and engineered powders have shown promise in reducing methane output, with one powder recently approved by the FDA for widespread use. However, experts like Michael Van Amburgh express caution, acknowledging that while these additives may help, they are not a complete solution to the methane problem. The dairy industry is under pressure to improve its carbon footprint, and while there is optimism about the effectiveness of feed additives, concerns remain about their long-term impact on cow health and productivity. Farmers are weighing the potential benefits against the risks of altering their cows' diets, as maintaining milk production is crucial. The growing interest in research to lower farming emissions is evident not only in New York but also in other countries like Denmark and Australia, which are investing in similar initiatives. The future of dairy farming may hinge on finding effective strategies to balance emissions reduction with the health and productivity of livestock.