Methane and net zero. Part 1: an introduction to net zero, methane, metrics and ruminants

Background: Since 2011, agriculture has been the largest anthropogenic source of methane emissions in the UK, the vast majority of which comes from enteric fermentation by ruminants, predominately cattle. Given methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases but is only present in the atmosphere for a short amount of time, globally there is a unique opportunity to slow climate warming if emissions can be reduced. It is essential for the public, policymakers and veterinarians to understand the key facts about the climate impacts of, and the methane mitigation methods available within, agriculture. Given the role of vets in herd health management and their crucial relationship with farmers, understanding the role of ruminants in global warming and what mitigation tools can be implemented will help their clients reduce the climate impact as well as provide other financial and animal welfare benefits.

Aim of the article: This article aims to inform veterinarians on the background of net zero, methane's atmospheric behaviour and the role of ruminants in methane emissions. This will provide the background knowledge to start discussions with farmers, clients, vets and lay people about the impact of the agricultural industry on climate change and how this is accounted for in current UK and global policy.