September 24, 2023 | Phys.Org |
Livestock farmers in Germany, Italy, Sweden, and the UK are shifting towards sustainable practices by feeding cows mainly or exclusively grass, aiming to reduce environmental and social costs associated with grain-based diets. The conventional use of imported grains contributes to deforestation, long transport routes, and higher emissions. Inspired by UK producers with 100% grass-fed cows, the EU project PATHWAYS is testing the feasibility of pasture-based farming. This approach offers environmental benefits such as nutrient return to the soil and CO2 absorption. However, the success depends on consumers paying premium prices for healthier and environmentally friendly products. The project also addresses emissions, animal welfare, and waste issues in collaboration with partners across 12 countries. Additionally, the Code Re-farm project focuses on enhancing safety, improving practices, and providing consumers with information on food origin and production methods for dairy goats and poultry. Nine tools are being developed to monitor animal health, improve product quality, and inform consumers, promoting sustainable livestock farming in Europe, such as a portable device that can determine the safety of eggs, an instrument to detect mastitis, etc.