Beyond their climate impact, the livestock sectors are facing growing pressure on their “right to produce”, particularly in Europe, where public policies and societal expectations demand more sustainable practices. The image of livestock farming is often tarnished, and those involved in the industry must demonstrate their ability to transition toward more responsible farming models.

Against this backdrop, the low-carbon trajectory becomes a strategic lever for preserving the sectors’ competitiveness, meeting the requirements of environmental labels, preempting future regulations, and strengthening consumer confidence.

Specific challenges depending on the species

Each animal species presents its own challenges in terms of decarbonization:

• For ruminants, enteric fermentation generates methane (CH₄), a GHG 28 times more potent than CO₂ over a 100-year timeframe. In dairy cows, methane accounts for up to 50% of the carbon footprint of a liter of milk. Reducing these emissions is therefore a priority.
• For monogastric species, emissions are primarily linked to manure management and feed. Optimizing rations, utilizing byproducts, and using local raw materials can significantly reduce the environmental impact.

The Mixscience approach: supporting the low-carbon transition

Mixscience offers a structured approach to support its customers in reducing the carbon footprint of their production, particularly by focusing on feed, which can account for up to 70% of an animal product’s carbon impact. However, this approach is not limited to feed: it also includes comprehensive livestock management and the improvement of key technical criteria, such as age at first calving or herd turnover rate, which help reduce the final carbon footprint.

• • Comprehensive assessment of the environmental impacts of animal production, from feed to livestock management to finished products, using the following tools: Matriciel® (a tool for calculating the LCA of compound feed for livestock) and Sustell™ (a tool for calculating the LCA of livestock farm outputs). In addition, the Icownic rationing tool calculates the environmental impact of one liter of milk or one kilogram of live meat, providing an integrated and operational view of livestock farms’ environmental performance.
  • Simulation of eco-design scenarios based on different nutritional strategies: reducing protein intake, diversifying raw materials with a focus on local sources, and using ingredients to improve feed efficiency or reduce methane production in ruminants. This approach also includes improving technical criteria through heifer management and reproductive management.
  • Step 3: Implementation and monitoring of the selected nutritional strategies, combined with best practices in livestock farming, to fully realize the potential of the feed.

Product availability and regulatory requirements may vary by country. Please consult the relevant local regulations.