Benefits of using nutrition and feed additives to reduce methane emissions from sheep
Carbon benefits with an approved methodology do not exist.
Co-benefit: this practice can potentially manipulate the quality of the end product (for example, prime lamb).
Opportunities to use feed additives:
- This activity is relevant to all sheep enterprises in Western Australia.
- In WA, about 2 million lambs are finished to slaughter weights each year, either as sucker lambs at weaning or after being finished in the paddock or feedlot.
- Production feeding to increase lamb growth rates, and finish lambs for slaughter at a younger age, reduces the total methane produced per lamb.
Risks associated with using nutrition and feed additives to reduce methane emissions from sheep
- No approved methodology exists.
- Including canola oil in supplementary feed reduces methane emissions but also reduces profit.