British scientists have achieved a remarkable milestone in sustainable agriculture with the birth of a genetically modified cow named "Hilda."
This unique cow has the potential to significantly reduce methane emissions, which could expedite the dairy industry's journey toward net-zero emissions.
Reducing Methane Emissions
Hilda was born at Crichton Royal Farm, near Dumfries, Scotland, as reported by Sunday Morning Herald. It is the first calf from the UK's longest scientifically monitored herd to be conceived through artificial insemination, a development that researchers believe will speed up the breeding process aimed at lowering methane emissions.
The scientists involved in the project explained that the artificial insemination technique allows the fertilization of Hilda's mother's eggs in a laboratory setting, resulting in the next generation of the herd being born eight months earlier than previously possible. By continuing this process, scientists at Scotland’s Rural College aim to double the genetic improvement rate within the herd, leading to the selection and breeding of animals that produce less methane.
Agriculture accounts for approximately 12% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions, with the majority being methane produced by cattle through burping and flatulence. Methane is generated by microbes in the rumen, the largest part of a cow’s stomach, and is influenced by the animal's genetic composition.
This greenhouse gas is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide and, while it remains in the atmosphere for only 20 years, legally binding targets aim to reduce emissions to net zero by 2050, making it a focal point for policymakers.
Advancements in Artificial Insemination
Professor Richard Durst of Scotland’s Rural College said that they can now employ artificial insemination with animals as young as six or eight months, significantly reducing the generational gap. Typically, the egg is transferred from the immature cow to a surrogate animal, often a two-year-old cow, which then gives birth to her first calf.
"As global dairy consumption continues to grow, breeding for sustainability becomes crucial, and Hilda’s birth represents an important milestone for the UK dairy industry," said Durst. He added, "We will utilize new genetic assessments alongside existing production and environmental efficiency indicators to select elite methane-efficient calves for reproduction."
The Langhill Cattle Genetics Project
The Langhill herd, established in the early 1970s, is the centerpiece of this breeding study; it is the world’s longest-running cattle genetics project. This herd has been used to study the greenhouse gas emissions associated with dairy production, including the impact of various diets and fertilizers on pastures.
Recent studies have shown that some of the world’s largest agricultural producers have successfully reduced their methane emissions. However, climate scientists caution that progress has been slow and must be significantly accelerated to limit global warming. The UK, like Australia, has joined the global voluntary methane pledge, aiming to cut emissions by 30% by 2030.
Improving Feed Conversion Efficiency
The Langhill study also focuses on breeding for “feed conversion efficiency,” which refers to how effectively a cow transforms feed into milk. The more feed cows consume, the more methane they produce. Leading British supermarkets, including Marks & Spencer, Tesco, and Morrisons, have launched initiatives to reduce their emissions by feeding cattle seaweed.
Rob Simmons from Paragon Veterinary Group emphasized that enhancing the genetic “methane efficiency” of dairy cows is essential for improving the sustainability of the sector. He noted that genetic improvements in methane efficiency will be key to meeting future food demands while mitigating the environmental impact of methane emissions.
