Fossil fuel emissions undoubtedly have incredibly large impact on climate change and the presence of greenhouse gases on our earth. Human action and the combustion of fossil fuels is detrimental; however, it is not the only factor driving climate change.
Very frequently overlooked in this conversation are the impacts both agriculture and farming have on our environment. Many people don’t even know of its influence. In reality, however, agriculture is responsible for nearly 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, deforestation associated with agribusiness make up another 18% of emissions.
As this topic has gained more recognition in the global spotlight, it has become something to consider more often in everyday life. Students at the University of Denver in particular, have begun to understand agriculture, farming and its relation to one’s carbon footprint.
“I know about farming and agriculture individually, but I am not too sure that I can fully explain how they have impacted climate, besides their pesticide abuse towards the land,” says Jayne Frey, a sophomore psychology student at the University of Denver.
The past few years have continued to unearth a plethora of research regarding farming and its connection towards climate change. Raising cattle in particular, is one of the most impactful causes of global pollution. Methane, a greenhouse gas nearly 30 times stronger than carbon dioxide, is released from cattle through belching or passing gas. There are 1.4 billion cows in the world, and together, one can only imagine how much methane that is.
Cattle host microbes in their digestive tracts that are responsible for this methane release, according to research done by National Geographic. Further investigations have shown, however, that plant-based diets, especially those containing seaweed, can significantly reduce methane emissions from cattle.
“There are numerous issues with modern day farming practices including air pollution, water pollution, deforestation, and methane emissions… this is just one of them. All around it’s a really terrible thing,” says Luma Randolph, a third-year business student at the University of Denver.
This entire situation, however, is a bit of a slippery slope. The beef and dairy industry is one of the most lucrative businesses in the economy, and it’s not going anywhere. Farmers have been fighting back in recent years after these accusatory declarations on how their livelihood impacts the environment. Without farmers, however, the world has billions of hungry people, and there is no denying it. Balance is essential in this difficult circumstance.
“It’s incredible how many vegan/vegetarian options are out there food wise, but I think the change will need to be incentivized by policies or increased taxation on unsustainable animal products,” says Randolph. “Unfortunately its one of those things where people get defensive about their choices, so spreading awareness in a non-accusatory way is essential.”
Sometimes, its education and small gestures that have the capability of making an impact. Catherine DeMane, a sophomore biology student at the University of Denver, goes into such ideas.
“While this is a difficult issue to combat, individuals can help the issue of methane emissions by limiting their red meat intake and supporting farmers who utilize smart farming techniques,” says DeMane.
Smart and sustainable agriculture involves practices pertaining to organic, low-input, free-range, holistic and biodynamic farming. This means farmers stray away from pesticides, care for their livestock and think in ways that limit environmental detriment.
In terms of cattle farming, new research has shown incorporating seaweed into cow’s diets limits methane exertion. A study at the University of California, Davis, found that methane emissions in cattle were reduced by over 30% in cows that ate strains of seaweed.
“There is no one solution to this problem. Farmers, politicians and every day citizens are going to have to collaborate in order to make head way towards sustainable farming and greenhouse gas reduction. In the meantime, change starts with us and our everyday actions,” says Jenna Hanson, a third-year engineering student at the University of Denver.
The MFJS Reporter -- Winter 2020 T-R 