l understanding rumen microbes and their response to mitigant treatments;

l finding better tools for measuring methane emissions and quantifying genetic differences;

l measuring GHG output in various grazing systems, and

l livestock treatments such as chemicals, native plant extracts and feed supplements.

Already, research funded by MLA and the AGO at Melbourne University has discovered a way to accurately measure GHG emissions from cattle in feedlot situation using new science and laser and infrared technology.

The first project of its type in the world, the research aims not only to find a method of measuring and estimating emissions, but to develop ways of proving the industry can reduce its contribution to the greenhouse effect.

“The preliminary data is showing that on average in a beef feedlot an animal emits between 200 and 300 grams of greenhouse gases a day. This compares favourably with other countries,” Melbourne University’s Professor Deli Chen said.

“You can only find ways to reduce greenhouse gases if you can reliably measure them.”

The next step will be to determine how diet, genetics, management practices and environment influence GHG emissions.

Feeding malate or fumarate, probiotics, polyunsaturated fats (such as sunflower, cotton seed, canola oil and palm oil), antibiotics in grain diets, adding grain to forage based diets and feeding condensed tannins such as legumes all have the potential to reduce methane emissions, Mr Johnsson said.

Other options include reducing numbers to only the most efficient performers, increasing productivity in terms of kilograms per animal and increasing forage quality.

Less understood measures include genetic selection for low methane output and anti-methane vaccines, neither of which can yet be quantified.

Using feed pads in wet seasons with excretal collection and redistribution, feeding condensed feeds to reduce urinary excretion, using nitrous oxide inhibitors, improving drainage and preventing soil compaction may all also help reduce nitrous oxide emissions.

By finding links between certain practices in the beef industry and the amount of gas emitted, it is hoped that farmers will be able to make long-term plans for reducing their emissions.

MLA will continue to seek international collaboration and identify areas of common interest across the agriculture industry to assist Australian beef farmers reduce their emissions, adapt to climate change and become part of a global solution, Mr Johnsson said..