Summary
This systems-scale field trial examined how soil, pasture composition, and animal diet interact to regulate nitrous oxide emissions from temperate grazing systems. The research demonstrated that emissions increased when cattle were fed high sugar grass and the resulting excreta was applied to soil under the same grass type, highlighting the importance of evaluating environmental impacts through integrated soil-pasture-animal-microbiome feedback mechanisms rather than in isolation.
UK applicability
Directly applicable to UK temperate grazing systems, where high sugar grass monocultures and intensive grazing are widely practised. Findings suggest UK farmers and policymakers should consider whole-farm feedback loops when assessing greenhouse gas mitigation strategies in livestock production.
Key measures
Nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions from soil; interactions between pasture type, animal diet, and soil conditions
Outcomes reported
The study measured nitrous oxide emissions from soil under high sugar grass monoculture receiving cattle excreta, examining three-way interactions between soil, pasture, and animal factors. Results demonstrated higher emissions when soil and forage were matched (cattle fed the same grass whose residues fertilised the experimental soil).
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