Review: Effect of breeding strategies, feeding and manure management, to mitigate methane emissions in dairy cattle farming: an overview and the road ahead

Ruminant production systems, in particular those involving cattle, play a substantial role in greenhouse gas emissions, particularly because of the amount of methane (CH₄) that they eruct. Here, we describe and incorporate the most relevant interdisciplinary approaches to mitigating CH₄ emissions in dairy cattle farming. We examine genetic selection for reduced daily CH₄ production, including key methods (direct measurement and mid-infrared spectroscopy predictions) now being integrated into breeding goals in some countries (e.g., Canada). We also evaluate feeding interventions, such as forage digestibility improvements and the use of additives (tannins, algae, and specialised compounds like 3-nitrooxypropanol), which may reduce CH₄ production in the rumen. Finally, we discuss manure management strategies (anaerobic digestion, reduced storage time, lower temperature) that can mitigate CH₄ release. By combining these approaches, producers can potentially reduce CH₄ emissions per unit of milk while maintaining productivity. However, important challenges persist — such as scaling up breeding practices without simply shifting emissions to beef systems, and verifying long-term impacts of dietary additives. We conclude that integrated breeding, feeding, and manure management strategies, supported by robust research and policy incentives, are essential for curbing dairy CH₄ emissions while ensuring sustainable milk production worldwide.