Marfrig invests in methane emissions reduction in Mato Grasso
SilvAir produces ammonia instead of methane
26 October 2023
2 minute read
By: Marfrig, global leader in hamburger production and one of the largest beef companies in the world—has reaffirmed its commitment to reduce GHGs (greenhouse effect gases) in its production chain, according to a company press release.
Earlier this year, for example, Marfrig was the only company in the industry in the Americas to have its GHG emission reduction targets approved by the SBTi (Science Based Targets Initiative).
In July 2022, the company took another step to reduce methane emissions from animals in its production chain and, thus, make livestock production more sustainable. The MFG Agropecuária feedlot in Tangará da Serra, state of Mato Grosso, a Marfrig supplier, began using SilvAir in cattle diet in July.
Developed by Cargill, the product is used during the cattle feedlot step and is also a source of nutrients, optimising diet formulation. SilvAir stimulates a natural process in the rumen, producing ammonia instead of methane. This effect is shown by more than 25 papers published on ruminants by institutions such as the American Society of Animal Science (United States).
In this first step of the project, the product was applied on a commercial scale, in 350 animals. “The purpose of using SilvAir is to optimise animal productivity, in addition to sustainable practices,” says André Campanini, technical manager at MFG Agropecuária.
“SilvAir is a product with proven scientific effects, which reduces the emission of methane, the main greenhouse gas in livestock production due to the enteric fermentation in animals. This reduction is one of the current priorities at Marfrig and reinforces company commitment to sustainability,” said Paulo Pianez, director of Sustainability and Corporate Communication at Marfrig.
In order to reduce emissions, the company has also worked on its production chain to develop systems such as livestock-crop-forest integration, genetic improvement for the slaughter of younger animals, adequate pasture management and adequate waste disposal.
“Nutron/Cargill is determined to find ways to reduce methane emissions from livestock production and contribute to ensuring the sustainability of the entire production chain. We believe that strategic partnerships combined with innovation are the main success factors for us to create significant positive impacts,” said Celso Mello, CEO of Cargill Animal Nutrition Latin America South.
