Conducting respiration measurements in respiration chambers using indirect calorimetry.
Determining the methane, carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and ammonia production of dairy cows of different genotypes.
Determining the oxygen consumption of dairy cows of different genotypes.
Investigating the influence of concentrate feed levels on gas emissions from dairy cows.
Comparing total mixed ration (TMR) and forage feeding (simulating pasture) with regard to gas emissions from dairy cows.
Calculating energy and protein balances of dairy cows based on respiration measurement data as well as feed, milk, fecal, and urine analyses.
Statistical evaluation of the results.
Publication of the results in international journals and national and international scientific journals. Presentations at several national and international conferences.
One of the most important global issues today is climate change. In December 2015, (almost) all countries of the world committed themselves in the Paris Agreement to taking measures to mitigate climate change. Agriculture is one economic sector that contributes to climate change to some extent. In particular, methane emissions from ruminants are repeatedly discussed as a significant factor in global warming. Therefore, there are calls to find strategies for reducing methane emissions from livestock farming.
Feeding and genotype are two key factors influencing the emission of methane and other gases. By analyzing different rations and genotypes of cows, this project can provide important information for assessing dairy production systems. It is expected that the data obtained will be used in the future to evaluate the greenhouse gas potential of farms. Furthermore, the results, in collaboration with institutes from other countries (within the framework of the EU project METHAGENE), can contribute to the further development of emission-reducing strategies in livestock farming.
In addition to determining greenhouse gas emissions from livestock farming, the measurement method used is also suitable for metabolic analysis of dairy cows. By analyzing feed, milk, feces, and urine, as well as determining the cows' CO2 production and O2 consumption, the animals' energy and nutrient utilization can be assessed.
These measurements can be used to check the current feeding recommendations (energy and protein requirements) and adjust them if necessary.
