Generated Summary
This document discusses the use of Bovaer®, a feed additive containing 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP), to reduce methane emissions in dairy cows. The technique involves adding Bovaer® to the feed of lactating and reproductive dairy cows. The primary goal is to reduce enteric methane emissions, which contribute to climate change. The mode of action involves blocking the last step of methanogenesis in the rumen, thereby reducing methane generation. The document highlights the potential efficacy, mode of use, requirements, limitations, and economic consequences of using Bovaer®. The information provided is based on scientific opinions and peer-reviewed publications, with specific references to studies and regulatory documents.
Key Findings & Statistics
- The use of Bovaer® aims for an average reduction of 30% in enteric methane emissions.
- The reduction is measured in emission of methane per day, per kg DM intake and per kg milk.
- The dosage of Bovaer® is equivalent to 60 mg Bovaer® (3-NOP)/kg total Dry Matter Intake.
- A maximum limit of 80 mg Bovaer® (3-NOP)/kg total Dry Matter may not be exceeded.
Other Important Findings
- The document notes that individual farm reductions can be calculated based on the farm ration information using the methane reduction formula published in (Kebreab et al. (2022)).
- The efficacy of Bovaer® can be impacted by factors such as the proportion of forages vs. concentrate, the quality of the forage (NDF%), and the percentage of fat in the diet.
- Animals must have access to the feed containing the additive throughout the day.
- Techniques are under development to allow for access to grazing animals.
- The additive must be delivered by the holder of the authorization.
- The substance must be added in a mixture by a registered feed business operator applying HACCP (Regulation (EC) No 183/2005).
- No impact on zootechnical performance has been identified as a side effect.
- The document mentions other techniques to reduce methane emissions, including the use of unsaturated fat sources, electron sinks, methane inhibitors, and shifts in rumen fermentation patterns.
Limitations Noted in the Document
- The document mentions the requirement that the animals must have access to the feed containing the additive throughout the day.
- The additive can only be used by registered feed business operators applying HACCP.
- Bovaer® is not authorized in organic production systems.
- It is not yet authorized for ruminants other than lactating dairy cows and reproductive cows.
Conclusion
The document provides a comprehensive overview of using Bovaer® to mitigate methane emissions in dairy cows. It outlines the mechanism of action, potential efficacy, and practical considerations for its implementation. A key takeaway is the potential to achieve a 30% reduction in enteric methane emissions, which is significant in the context of climate change mitigation in the agricultural sector. However, the document also points out limitations, such as the need for continuous access to the feed additive, regulatory restrictions, and the higher feeding costs. While the use of Bovaer® shows promise, it is essential to consider these limitations and explore other techniques to reduce methane emissions further. The document also stresses the importance of ongoing research and development to optimize the use of Bovaer® and other strategies to enhance the sustainability of dairy farming. By addressing these challenges and continuing to innovate, the agricultural sector can make substantial contributions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving climate goals. The document underscores the complexity of implementing these strategies and the need for a holistic approach to methane reduction, including various feeding strategies and technological advances.