Energy & water use
Feedlots and intensive finishing systems can be significant users of energy and water. It is important that these be managed efficiently to ensure environmental and economic sustainability.
Energy is primarily used in the feed milling and production plants that are often attached to feedlots. Water is used in the milling process to wash down pens and suppress dust and consumed by livestock on a daily basis. The availability and security of water has been identified as the most significant issue limiting the growth potential and size of the feedlot sector.
The increasing cost of energy and the scarcity of water mean that feedlot and intensive finishing operations must proactively manage energy and water usage. One way for feedlots to do this is through involvement in the National Feedlot Accreditation Scheme (NFAS).
National Feedlot Accreditation Scheme
The NFAS requires that environmental management procedures be established and implemented in adherence with the National Beef Cattle Feedlot Environmental Code of Practice. This includes the management of energy and water.
These procedures ensure that clear and achievable environmental objectives are outlined and performance indicators, operational practices and monitoring programs established. Through the NFAS:
- Feedlot managers must be aware of and adhere to their environmental legislative requirements.
- Employees must be aware of and adhere to their environmental management responsibilities and be adequately trained.
A feedlot's environmental performance is reviewed through the NFAS on an annual basis or as required by the regulatory authority.
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