CATTLE FARMING AND METHANE EMISSIONS: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES

Abstract

Cattle farming holds significant economic and social importance in Brazil; however, it is also associated with the emission of greenhouse gases—most notably methane (CH₄)—generated during the enteric fermentation process in ruminants and through the management of animal waste. This study examines cattle farming as a key economic sector in Brazil, one that has experienced substantial growth over the years. This expansion has impacted greenhouse gas emissions, with methane (CH₄)—produced primarily through the enteric fermentation of ruminants—standing out as a major contributor. Consequently, this study aimed to analyze, via a literature review, the relationship between cattle farming, methane emissions, and their implications for climate change, while also considering strategies to mitigate these emissions. A bibliographic review was conducted covering scientific studies published between 2000 and 2025, drawing from sources such as Google Scholar, SciELO, Scopus, the CAPES Journal Portal, the Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Removals Estimating System (SEEG), and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The literature indicates that, in the context of extensive livestock farming, enteric fermentation is the primary source of methane associated with cattle, though waste management also contributes to emissions. Factors influencing CH₄ production—such as diet composition and quality, feed digestibility, pasture management, and animal characteristics—are identified as key drivers that exacerbate climate change. Furthermore, several factors are directly linked to the production of enteric CH₄ in ruminants, including the type of carbohydrates fermented, the animal's digestive system, and the quantity and type of feed consumed. Key mitigation strategies include proper pasture management, diet improvement, and the use of nutritional approaches capable of altering ruminal fermentation. Consequently, reducing emissions associated with cattle production depends on adopting management practices that reconcile agricultural production with the reduction of environmental impacts and the goals of addressing climate change.