Balancing Sustainability and Productivity in Pasture-Based Dairy Systems

Strategic Insights -

A new study published in Sustainability highlights the trade-offs between environmental sustainability, pasture productivity, and methane mitigation in pasture-based dairy systems. Conducted in the Azores, a region known for its agricultural practices and environmental challenges, researchers compared enteric methane emissions, floristic composition, productivity, and nutritional quality between conventional and organic pasture systems. The study aimed to provide insights into the environmental impact of these systems and the need for integrated management approaches.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that organic pastures had greater floristic diversity (5.10 +/- 0.25 species/m2) than conventional pastures (4.00 +/- 0.23 species/m2).
  • However, conventional systems exhibited higher dry matter productivity (22.85 g/m2 vs. 15.35 g/m2) and incorporated corn silage, which enhanced digestible energy and reduced methane emissions (81.33 kg CH4/cow/year) compared to organic systems (89.17 kg CH4/cow/year).
  • Organic pastures had higher crude protein content (20.65%), but their lower digestibility contributed to higher methane emissions.
  • The study underscores the need for integrated management approaches that balance ecological and production goals.
  • The researchers recommend considering factors such as floristic diversity, dry matter productivity, and nutritional quality when designing pasture-based dairy systems.

Statistics:

  • The study found that organic pastures had an average of 5.10 +/- 0.25 species/m2, while conventional pastures had an average of 4.00 +/- 0.23 species/m2.
  • Conventional systems exhibited 22.85 g/m2 of dry matter productivity, while organic systems exhibited 15.35 g/m2.
  • Methane emissions were estimated at 81.33 kg CH4/cow/year for conventional systems and 89.17 kg CH4/cow/year for organic systems.

Sources:

  • Insights Into Enteric Methane Emissions In Conventional and Organic Dairy Grazing Systems In Island Regions. Sustainability, 2025;17(11):4944.
  • Sustainability can be contacted at: Mdpi, St Alban-Anlage 66, Ch-4052 Basel, Switzerland.
  • The University of Acores, Inst Agr & Environm Res & Technol Iitaa, Rua Capitao Avila, Pt-9700042 Angra Do Heroismo, Portugal.