How to Reduce Methane Emission of Livestock by Growing Pakchong 1 as a Fodder Crops?_Dr. P. C. Patel

Methane emissions from livestock farming play a significant role in our planet's climate. Balanced feeding might have resulted in a shift in volatile fatty acid pattern towards more propionate and less acetate, resulting in lower methane production. Thus, ration balancing could be a practical approach for reducing methanogenesis in tropical feeding systems.
Reducing methane emissions from livestock farming is crucial for both environmental sustainability and food security. Growing “Pakchong 1” as a fodder crop can be an effective strategy.
1.Improved Fodder Quality: Pakchong 1 (Super Napier Hybrid) should be cultivated with a focus on nutrient-rich and digestible fodder. High-quality fodder ensures better digestion in livestock, reducing the amount of *enteric methane* produced during digestion. This study suggested further study of the suitable type and the optimal quantity of fertilizer applied for Napier Pakchong 1 grass plantation. The most efficient irrigation system with the least environmental impact should either be considered.
2. Balanced Nutrition: Provide a balanced diet to livestock that includes Pakchong 1 along with other feed sources. A diverse diet helps maintain gut health and minimizes methane emissions. Various field studies in different parts of India indicate that feeding nutritionally balanced rations has improved milk production up to 14 % and reduced methane emission (g/kg milk yield) by 15-20 % in lactating cows and buffaloes. Balanced nutrition contributes to reducing the emission of greenhouse gases per unit of animal product. In summary, providing a balanced ration not only enhances dairy cattle productivity but also contributes to environmental sustainability by mitigating methane emissions.
3.Supplementation: Consider supplementing the diet with leguminous shrubs, urea molasses multi-nutrient blocks (UMMB), or urea-treated crop residues. These supplements can improve livestock productivity while reducing methane intensity.
4. Genetic Selection: Breeding programs can focus on selecting livestock with lower methane production. Genetic improvements can lead to animals that emit less methane during digestion.
5. Feed Additives: Explore the use of *feed additives* that mitigate methane emissions. Examples include “plant secondary metabolites”, “methane inhibitors”, “lipids”, “essential oils”, and “algae”.
6. Manure Management: Proper handling and management of livestock manure can reduce methane emissions. Implement “anaerobic digestion” systems to capture methane from manure and convert it into usable energy.
7.Monitoring and Research: Continuously monitor methane emissions on the farm. Participate in research studies to stay informed about the latest strategies and technologies.

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If I harvest my pakchong 1 at 'vegetative stage', what effect will it cause to the plant and animal ?