Net zero initiative in U.S. beef and dairy systems: integrative on-farm recommendations for greenhouse gas reduction

Abstract

Beef and dairy production systems play an important role in society, providing a variety of ecosystem services. U.S. beef and dairy production systems require being aligned with the global and national effort to stabilize the anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the atmosphere. This study adapted the nominal group technique framework to design a roadmap to achieving a net-zero GHG cattle supply chain in the U.S. with an emphasis on farm recommendations. Scientists with diverse expertise in sustainable beef and dairy production proposed, categorized, described, defined, and prioritized strategies that have the potential to significantly reduce GHG emissions, improve production system efficiencies, and promote sustainability. These strategies were presented to different stakeholders and classified according to the marginal GHG reduction, expected return on investment, and market readiness. Thus, strategies were defined for cow-calf and stocker, feedlot, and dairy operations, according to the characteristics of the cattle systems in the U.S. This net-zero roadmap presents a broad range of options for promoting sustainable cattle production in the U.S. Priority items for a research agenda to facilitate progress towards implementing this net-zero roadmap are described according to the dairy or beef production system and including the modulation of rumen fermentation, precision diet management, manure management, increasing animal and system efficiency, and genetic evaluation and selecting of efficient animals. The expected return on investment and market readiness of the proposed strategies depend on the technology type and system localization. Progress toward the net-zero goal depends on the widespread adoption of appropriate mitigation strategies. Future research programs must prioritize identified research needs to promote the wide adoption of the proposed strategies.

Keywords

• greenhouse gas emissions
• ruminants
• sustainability