SUSTAINABILITY FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE November 2024 61 convert the captured cow methane into biogas, which can be used for energy production. Genetic Selection to reduce methane from cows Identifying and breeding cows with lower cow methane production potential can contribute to long-term reductions of emission of methane from cows. Methane-Capturing Technologies to reduce cow methane Technologies like methane-capturing backpacks or masks can be used on cows to collect and measure cow methane emissions accurately. This data can aid in identifying cows with high emission levels of cow methane. These data can also be used for developing targeted cow methane mitigation strategies. Improved Grazing Practices Implementing rotational grazing techniques and pasture management strategies can help shifting the rumen fermentation in a way that less methane is produced during fermentation. Nutrient Management Optimizing the use of nitrogen-rich fertilizers and implementing precision farming practices can reduce nitrogen-related emissions, including emission of nitrous oxide which is also an important greenhouse gas of cows next to methane from cows. Addressing cow methane emissions is crucial for combating climate change and achieving global emission reduction targets. Through a combination of increasing feed efficiency, improved feed management, manure management practices, genetic selection and the adoption of innovative technologies, the dairy industry can contribute significantly to reducing cow methane. By implementing these strategies for reduction of methane from cows, we can take a significant step towards achieving a more sustainable future with lower cow greenhouse gas emissions. About Jac Bergman Jac Bergman graduated from the Veterinary Faculty of the University of Utrecht, the Netherlands in 1990. He worked in a number of veterinary practices in the Netherlands, mainly dealing with dairy and horse fertility. He also worked at the ambulatory clinic of the Veterinary Faculty in Utrecht. In 1994, he joined Intervet, now called MSD Animal Health where he had various positions dealing with all livestock species but also dealing with companion animals. In 2014, Jac Bergman joined Nutreco, where he was initially responsible for animal health products, later for calf milk replacers and more recently for Selko feed additives for ruminants. Bergman is looking to contribute to making dairy and beef farming more sustainable, from an environmental, but also from a social-economical point of view.
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