Twelfth International Conference on Climate Change: Impacts & Responses

Abstract

Livestock is a contributor to and victim of climate change. Livestock production is one of the sources of major greenhouse gases (GHGs): methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide. Livestock produces methane through enteric and manure emissions. Livestock production contributes 47-54% of methane to the global GHG pool. Climate adversities badly affect the health, production, welfare, and survival of animals. This paper discusses the adaptation and mitigation potential of dwarf cattle in climate-resilient animal agriculture. The smaller size of dwarf cattle gives energetic advantage to the animals, providing them the ability to cope with increased warming. The metabolic efficiency and ability to better utilise low-quality roughages also help to reduce the carbon footprint as methane production results in a net loss of energy. We summarise that use of ecologically resilient dwarf cattle may enhance methane mitigation and help reduce the impact of climate change on livestock.