Livestock and Emissions: Distinguish to Act – Agricolae
Agricolae highlights my statement on the importance of more accurate metrics to differentiate between biogenic and fossil emissions, emphasizing the value of circular economy practices in the livestock sector.
Read the full article on Agricolae or a brief summary below.
Livestock and Emissions: Distinguish to Act
The 3.2% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in Europe in 2023 compared to the previous year is a positive sign, but it requires deeper analysis to identify real priorities in the fight against climate change. I emphasized the need for more accurate metrics to differentiate between various types of greenhouse gases. Comparing biogenic methane emissions from the livestock supply chain with fugitive emissions from the fossil fuel industry is a methodological error that distorts public debate and unfairly penalizes those working within a circular economy framework.
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Methane, unlike CO2, has a much shorter atmospheric lifecycle, lasting between 9 and 12 years, and is part of a natural cycle where carbon is reabsorbed. This differentiates biogenic methane, produced by ruminants, from fossil emissions, which contribute irreversibly to global warming. I highlighted the importance of moving beyond the current standard that converts all emissions into CO2 equivalent, as it fails to account for the cyclical and sustainable nature of biogenic emissions.
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I also pointed out the virtuous role of the livestock sector, often the target of ideological criticism, which is instead a concrete example of a circular economy. Through innovative technologies, improved animal diets, and biogas production systems, the sector has significantly reduced its emissions while also decreasing fossil fuel use.
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In conclusion, I urge institutions and the public to recognize these differences to rigorously tackle climate challenges by basing policies on precise metrics and a scientific approach. This is essential to identify and address the true sources of pollution while valuing sustainable practices.
