Relationship between Dairy Cow Health and Intensity of Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Simple Summary There is increasing pressure on dairy systems worldwide to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Anticipated improvements in animal welfare and reduced mortality and disease rates are expected to result in increased animal productivity, hence reducing GHG emissions per unit of output. There has been a lack of focus on quantifying the intensity of GHG emissions and their impact on the health of dairy cows, encompassing both subclinical and clinical problems. The initial indications of illnesses in dairy cows typically manifest as a decline in both feed consumption and milk production. The implementation of emission-reducing strategies and the maintenance of optimal animal welfare are suggested as effective approaches to improve the sustainability of modern dairy production. More information regarding animal health prior to animal mortality is required to enhance the precision of the estimate for GHG emission intensity. Through the analysis of animal health data prior to mortality, a more accurate estimation of GHG emission intensity can be attained. This will allow dairy producers to have a better understanding of the environmental consequences of their operations and make well-informed choices regarding ways to reduce emissions. In addition, placing a high priority on achieving the best possible conditions for animal welfare not only supports the long-term viability of dairy production, but also guarantees the health and happiness of the cows. This, in turn, can result in enhanced overall productivity and a decrease in the occurrence of diseases. Therefore, it is essential to adopt a comprehensive approach that considers both environmental and animal health aspects to advance a sustainable and efficient dairy sector. Furthermore, the integration of technology such as precision farming and data analytics can significantly augment the efficiency and sustainability of dairy operations.Abstract The dairy industry is facing criticism for its role in exacerbating global GHG emissions, as climate change becomes an increasingly pressing issue. These emissions mostly originate from methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2). An optimal strategy involves the creation of an economical monitoring device to evaluate methane emissions from dairy animals. Livestock production systems encounter difficulties because of escalating food demand and environmental concerns. Enhancing animal productivity via nutrition, feeding management, reproduction, or genetics can result in a decrease in CH4 emissions per unit of meat or milk. This CH4 unit approach allows for a more accurate comparison of emissions across different animal production systems, considering variations in productivity. Expressing methane emissions per unit allows for easier comparison between different sources of emissions. Expressing emissions per unit (e.g., per cow) highlights the relative impact of these sources on the environment. By quantifying emissions on a per unit basis, it becomes easier to identify high-emission sources and target mitigation efforts accordingly. Many environmental policies and regulations focus on reducing emissions per unit of activity or output. By focusing on emissions per unit, policymakers and producers can work together to implement practices that lower emissions without sacrificing productivity. Expressing methane emissions in this way aligns with policy goals aimed at curbing overall greenhouse gas emissions. While it is true that total emissions affect the atmosphere globally, breaking down emissions per unit helps to understand the specific contributions of different activities and sectors to overall greenhouse gas emissions. Tackling cattle health issues can increase productivity, reduce GHG emissions, and improve animal welfare. Addressing livestock health issues can also provide favourable impacts on human health by reducing the prevalence of infectious illnesses in livestock, thereby mitigating the likelihood of zoonotic infections transmitting to humans. The progress in animal health offers the potential for a future in which the likelihood of animal diseases is reduced because of improved immunity, more effective preventative techniques, earlier identification, and innovative treatments. The primary objective of veterinary medicine is to eradicate clinical infectious diseases in small groups of animals. However, as the animal population grows, the emphasis shifts towards proactive treatment to tackle subclinical diseases and enhance production. Proactive treatment encompasses the consistent monitoring and implementation of preventive measures, such as vaccination and adherence to appropriate nutrition. Through the implementation of these measures, the livestock industry may enhance both animal well-being and mitigate the release of methane and nitrous oxide, thereby fostering environmental sustainability. In addition, advocating for sustainable farming methods and providing farmers with education on the significance of mitigating GHG emissions can bolster the industry's endeavours to tackle climate change and infectious illnesses. This will result in a more robust and environmentally sustainable agriculture industry. This review seeks to conduct a thorough examination of the correlation between the health condition of cattle, the composition of milk produced, and the emissions of methane gas. It aims to identify areas where research is lacking and to provide guidance for future scientific investigations, policy making, and industry practices. The goal is to address the difficulties associated with methane emissions in the cattle industry. The primary global health challenge is to identify the causative relationship between climate change and infectious illnesses. Reducing CH4 and N2O emissions from digestive fermentation and animal manure can be achieved by improving animal well-being and limiting disease and mortality.