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Innovative Strategies for Sustainable Dairy Farming in Canada amidst Climate Change

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  • Suresh Neethirajan

    (Department of Animal Science & Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture & Computer Science, Dalhousie University, 6050 University Ave, Halifax, NS B3H 1W5, Canada)

Abstract

In recent years, the Canadian dairy sector has faced escalating challenges due to its significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane. This paper critically examines a spectrum of innovative techniques aimed at mitigating methane emissions within this sector, scrutinizing their cost-effectiveness, efficiency, compatibility with animal welfare standards, and adherence to both existing and prospective Canadian environmental legislations. The discourse begins with an exhaustive overview of contemporary methane reduction methodologies relevant to dairy farming, followed by a rigorous analysis of their economic feasibility. This includes a detailed cost-benefit analysis, juxtaposed with the efficiency and technological advancements these techniques embody. A pivotal aspect of this examination is the alignment of animal welfare with emission reduction objectives, ensuring that the strategies employed do not compromise the health and well-being of dairy cattle. Furthermore, the paper delves into the legislative landscape of Canada, evaluating the congruence of these techniques with current environmental laws and anticipating future regulatory shifts. Performance indicators for emission reduction are critically assessed, establishing benchmarks tailored to the Canadian context. This is complemented by an exploration of the market potential of these innovations, including factors influencing their adoption and scalability in the market. The analysis culminates with a synthesis of case studies and best practices within Canada, offering insights into successful implementations and drawing lessons for future endeavors. This comprehensive approach not only addresses the immediate environmental and health impacts associated with dairy farming emissions but also significantly contributes to the overarching goal of sustainable development in the agricultural sector. The research presented in this paper holds significant implications for the future of sustainable dairy farming, offering a model for addressing environmental challenges while maintaining economic viability and animal welfare.

Suggested Citation

  • Suresh Neethirajan, 2023. "Innovative Strategies for Sustainable Dairy Farming in Canada amidst Climate Change," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(1), pages 1-37, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2023:i:1:p:265-:d:1308731
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Janine I. Berdos & Chris Major Ncho & A-Rang Son & Sang-Suk Lee & Seon-Ho Kim, 2023. "Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Estimation for Cattle: Assessing the Potential Role of Real-Time Feed Intake Monitoring," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(20), pages 1-17, October.
    2. Davis, Matthew & Ahiduzzaman, Md. & Kumar, Amit, 2018. "How will Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions change by 2050? A disaggregated analysis of past and future greenhouse gas emissions using bottom-up energy modelling and Sankey diagrams," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 220(C), pages 754-786.
    3. Elizabeth G. Ross & Carlyn B. Peterson & Yongjing Zhao & Yuee Pan & Frank M. Mitloehner, 2021. "Manure Flushing vs. Scraping in Dairy Freestall Lanes Reduces Gaseous Emissions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(10), pages 1-12, May.
    4. Fei Qi & Xuedong Zhao & Zhengxiang Shi & Hao Li & Wanying Zhao, 2023. "Environmental Factor Detection and Analysis Technologies in Livestock and Poultry Houses: A Review," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 13(8), pages 1-16, July.
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