Potential of feed additives to improve the environmental impact of European livestock farming: a multi-issue analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to conduct a comprehensive systematic review to identify feed additives, listed on Annex 1 of the European Union Register of Feed Additives, that have potential to reduce polluting emissions from livestock and to conduct a very simple meta-analysis of the collated data in order to identity the potential efficacy of these substances and agents. This study differs from the many other meta-analyses published in this general area in that it encompasses a broader range of environmental impacts and animal species within a single study than has occurred heretofore. The review identified 37 substances and agents offering benefits for 6 different potentially polluting emissions: gaseous releases of ammonia, methane, carbon dioxide, odours, and excretion of nitrogen and phosphorus for four animal groups: cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry. The meta-analysis showed that very considerable reductions in these emissions may be achievable, particularly in respect to ammonia and greenhouse gases. Estimates based on modest levels of usage in the European Union suggest that a reduction greater than 168 kt ammonia and 7100 kt methane could be achievable. However, in order to maximize these benefits regulators and the wider industry need to implement policies, processes and incentives to encourage greater uptake.

Keywords:

• livestock farming
• feed additives
• sustainable agriculture
• environmental impact
• greenhouse gases
• ammonia

Funding

This work was funded by the EFSA as part of a wider research project (Ref. CFT/EFSA/FEED/2012/02). EFSA's financial support is gratefully acknowledged. The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the EFSA.