Pasture Type and Methane Emissions
UK - Kirsty Hammond grew up on a dairy farm and wanted to do research that helped farmers. Now she is hoping the "hot topic" of her PhD will also help the environment.
24 June 2008
1 minute read
According to the New Zealand Herald, the 22-year-old Massey University student is investigating how different pasture types influence the methane emissions of cattle and sheep.
Her research will also examine whether altering the composition of pastures can reduce methane produced by ruminant animals.
Hammond grew up in Whakatane and said her dairying background was influential in her decision to focus on methane. "I asked myself, 'How can I help farmers?' This is where I've seen this window."
Though the research is in its infancy, Ms Hammond hopes it may one day reduce NZ's methane emissions and help the country meet its obligations under the Kyoto Protocol, reports the Herals.
"It may give an opportunity to produce a type of pasture that may reduce methane yield," she said.
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