Sustainable practices in beef feedlot farming have emerged. Their focus is on reducing carbon footprint and managing trace mineral excretion in manure to minimize environmental impact while ensuring efficient production.
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Reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing environmental stewardship of beef feedlots
Sustainable practices in beef feedlot farming have emerged. Their focus is on reducing carbon footprint and managing trace mineral excretion in manure to minimize environmental impact while ensuring efficient production.
Improving feed efficiency of feedlots with feed additives and nutritional solutions
Strategic use of feed additives and advanced nutritional solutions is pivotal in optimizing feed efficiency, which directly correlates with reducing greenhouse gas emissions. According to Capper and Bauman1, enhancing feed conversion rate not only improves economic viability but also mitigates environmental impacts by minimizing resource use (Figure 1). Feed additives play a crucial role by enhancing digestive efficiency, which reduces methane emissions from cattle digestion. This approach not only improves the sustainability of feedlot operations but also enhances health and performance of the animals.
Figure 1: Comparative resource use and waste outputs per unit of beef produced in US production systems of 1977 compared to 2007 (Capper and Bauman, 2013)
Managing trace minerals and environmental impact
Managing trace mineral excretion in manure is another critical aspect of sustainable beef feedlot farming. Integrating precision feeding systems ensures that cattle receive the optimal amount of nutrients required for growth without excess. This approach not only minimizes waste but also reduces the excretion of trace minerals into the environment. Research highlights the importance of sustainable manure management in minimizing environmental impact2. By integrating nutrient management practices, feedlots can reduce contamination of soil with trace metals and thus contribute to healthier ecosystems3 (see Figure 2).
Figure 2: Impact of feeding Selko IntelliBond Z compared to Zinc Sulphate on mineral excretion in the faeces of beef cattle.
Innovations in technology and monitoring
Advancements in technology have revolutionized feedlot farming. From precision feeding systems that deliver optimal nutrition to cattle, to sophisticated monitoring technologies that track animal health and environmental parameters in real-time. These innovations are driving sustainable practices forward.
The path towards sustainable beef production in feedlots
Achieving sustainable beef feedlot farming requires collaboration across the industry. By sharing best practices and adopting proven strategies, feedlot operators can collectively advance sustainability goals while meeting growing global food demands. By leveraging innovative feed additives, nutritional solutions, and cutting-edge technologies, feedlot operations can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and manage trace mineral excretion effectively. This approach not only enhances profitability and efficiency but also ensures a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.
Navigating the daily operations of dairy and beef farming is challenging, and the transition towards sustainable practices raises numerous questions.
Selko ruminant specialists are dedicated to help you assess and address these challenges effectively. For personalized support and expert advice on achieving sustainable and profitable farming, get in touch with our team today.
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References about sustainable feedlot beef farming practices
Capper, J. L., & Bauman, D. E. (2013). The Role of Productivity in Improving the Environmental Sustainability of Ruminant Production Systems. Annual Review of Animal Biosciences, 1, 469-489.
Ritchie, H., & Roser, M. (2020). Environmental Impacts of Food Production. Our World in Data. Retrieved from https://ourworldindata.org/environmental-impacts-of-food
Wiebusch, A. T., M. L. Silveira, L. S. Caramalac, H. J. Fernandes, and J. D. Arthington (2015). Effect of copper, zinc, and manganese source on preferential free-choice intake of salt-based supplements by beef calves and precipitation-impacted metal loss. J. Anim. Sci. 93(Suppl. s3):824.
