Value proposition for the development of an emissions reduction fund method for use of novel feed supplements in the feedlot sector

Summary

At present there are no methodologies in Australia's Emission Reduction Fund applicable for feedlots. In recent years several feed supplements with the capability to reduce emissions in livestock have emerged and are nearing commercialization. The supplements are ideally suited for the feedlot scenario where animals are fed total mixed rations and this sector is expected to lead adoption of these technologies which can then be adapted to other sectors of animal production over time. This project delivered a submission to the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources as part of their annual ERF methodology prioritization consultation.

Objectives

The objectives if this project were to:
1) Develop a discussion paper presenting a value proposition for feed supplements for reducing methane emissions of feedlot cattle, focused on presenting the science for adoption as an ERF method priority.
2) Outline how the proposed method meets the offset integrity standards. The standards are set out in the Carbon
Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative) Act 2011.
3) Propose carbon accounting methods for the use of feed supplements in the feedlot sector that align (if possible) with activity data and methods of the National Greenhouse Gas inventory.
4) Forecast conservative estimates of Bovaer adoption in the feedlot sector including carbon dioxide equivalent
abatement and easy to understand figures for the public (e.g. equivalent cars removed from the road).

Key findings

This project supported a submission for the prioritisation of novel feed supplements that reduce enteric methane (CH4) from ruminant livestock as an ERF method, to be implemented initially in the feedlot beef cattle sector. Subsequent implementation in grazing beef and dairy cattle is anticipated when supporting evidence becomes available.

The proposed method is suitable for multiple feed supplements and relies upon knowledge of the efficacy of each of these supplements. The proposed method is suitable for use in the Australian feedlot industry with at least one highly effective feed supplement, 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) which is now branded as BOVAER, nearing commercialisation at the present time.

Benefits to industry

The Australian read meat industry has an ambitious goal to be carbon neutral by 2030, and has invested heavily in research to deliver technologies that can substantially reduce emissions. Novel feed supplements are the most promising mitigation technology for this sector.

We have estimated that supplementation with Bovaer may mitigate 1.3 M t CO2-e p.a. in the feedlot sector, which could increase to >14.4 M t CO2-e p.a. as research supports extension into grazing beef and sheep and dairy cattle. This method will provide a clear pathway with confidence for researchers, industry members and feed supplement producers to work towards reducing methane in this major contributor to national emissions.

MLA action

MLA will continue to undertake investment and R&D in new technologies that enable progression of the red meat industry towards the CN30 target. The feedlot program will continue to invest in evaluation of these technologies for cattle during their time in feedlots.

Future research

Future research will need to be focused on mechanisms for delivery of supplements or suitable supplements for animals in extensive production systems.