Impact of livestock on climate change and vice versa

Abstract

Livestock production plays a crucial role in global food security, nutrition, employment and rural livelihoods, particularly in developing countries. However, climate change driven by greenhouse gas emissions poses serious challenges to livestock productivity, health and sustainability. Rising temperatures and altered climatic conditions increase heat stress, negatively affecting feed intake, growth, reproduction, immunity and survival across livestock species. At the same time, the livestock sector significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, mainly through enteric fermentation, manure management, feed production and land use change. Methane and nitrous oxide are the dominant gases associated with livestock systems. Various mitigation strategies, including improved feeding practices, rumen manipulation, efficient manure and fertilizer management, and better land-use planning, can substantially reduce emission intensity. Enhancing animal productivity through genetic selection, health management and efficient resource use further lowers emissions per unit of output. Climate change and livestock production are thus interlinked challenges requiring integrated solutions. Adoption of sustainable, climate-smart livestock management practices is essential to reduce environmental impacts while safeguarding productivity and livelihoods. This review emphasises the need for integrated, climate-smart livestock management approaches that simultaneously reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance animal productivity. It highlights the importance of sustainable feeding, improved husbandry practices and supportive policies to build resilient livestock systems under changing climatic conditions.