Study Reveals Lower Methane Emissions from Moorland Grazing Swaledale Sheep
A study by the Forage for CH4nge project found that Swaledale sheep emit less methane compared to Texel-cross sheep, primarily due to their smaller size, although emissions were similar when adjusted for weight. Ewes grazing on improved grassland produced more methane than those on herb-rich natural grassland or moorland. The research aims to promote sustainable sheep farming practices while addressing climate change, as agriculture contributes significantly to the UK's greenhouse gas emissions.
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The Forage for CH4nge project, funded by Innovate UK, studied methane emissions from native Swaledale and Texel-cross sheep grazing on different forages. Conducted by Adrian Thornton-Berry and partners including GWCT and SRUC, the research found Swaledale ewes emitted less methane than Texel-crosses, attributed to their smaller size.
However, when adjusted for weight, emissions were similar. Ewes on improved grassland produced more methane than those on herb-rich natural grassland or moorland. Swaledale ewes also emitted less carbon dioxide than crossbreds.
The study involved 120 sheep, measuring emissions in mobile Portable Accumulation Chambers. Agriculture contributes 12% of the UK's GHG emissions, with livestock accounting for 50%. The project aims to support sustainable sheep farming while mitigating climate change impacts.
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