Using plants to decrease methane emissions
Bloat and acidosis are distressing disorders for ruminants. They are caused by a malfunction of microbial digestion in the rumen. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and ammonia are a result of normal rumen fermentation. As a way to alleviate these problems, the RUMEN-UP project has created plant-based sustainable solutions. This has been achieved through the development of new plants or plant extracts as dietary supplements in place of chemical additives and antibiotics. Plant materials were obtained from botanical and industrial collections and then assessed for their potential to lessen nutritional stress in ruminants. It is also a way to decrease pollution since methane formation is prevented and nitrogen excretions are decreased. This advancement in organic farming is beneficial for EU biotech and agricultural industries and can also increase crop diversity.
