An evaluation of the options for selection, adoption and commercialisation of low heritability traits to develop lower emission red meat farming systems

Summary

This report outlines the nature of the business case and path to market for research into genetic
improvement of ruminants as a tool for reducing enteric methane emissions, and is intended to
inform the development of future strategic and tactical research investments in this area in
Australia. Two approaches are recommended. The first is a short term approach which targets
reductions in greenhouse gas emissions intensity using existing selection criteria, but with use
of new selection indexes that incorporate new weights for methane reducing traits. The long run
approach depends on research to develop new selection criteria for enteric methane emissions
expressed per unit of feed eaten. Commercial drivers for these initiatives would benefit from
integration of genetic strategies into a Carbon Farming Initiative program although consumer
demand captured through vertical supply chains could also be important.​