Every year almost 600 million tonnes of methane are emitted in the atmosphere. Of these, about 60 percent originates from human activities. Agriculture contributes to nearly half of the global anthropogenic methane production, followed by fossil fuels and waste. The livestock sector is one of the greatest contributors of methane emissions, mainly produced through the natural digestive process of ruminants known as “enteric fermentation” and manure management practices. Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas that increases global temperature. To limit global warming by 2030, countries should reduce methane emissions, particularly from livestock, by 30 percent. FAO supports countries to mitigate methane emissions from livestock as part of their climate actions, while improving food security and livelihoods.
Key facts
Highlights
News
Nitrogen use efficiency must be improved to reduce harm to human and environmental health
A new report from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) provides a comprehensive overview of nitrogen use and the resulting challenges...
News
Bhutan advances climate action in livestock sector through stakeholder workshop
The Kingdom of Bhutan organized a workshop to strengthen national commitment to carbon neutrality and enhance climate resilience in the livestock sector...
Video
Livestock and enteric methane
Burping livestock are a big problem for our planet. When cows and other ruminants eat, their food ferments in their gut and produces methane, which contributes to global warming.
Latest publications
Publication
Greenhouse gas emissions and mitigation pathways for the livestock sector in Kenya
05/11/2026
This study presents a comprehensive and high‑quality assessment of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and mitigation pathways, covering cattle (beef and dairy), camels, sheep and goats.
Report
Sustainable nitrogen management in agrifood systems
This report provides a comprehensive overview of nitrogen's role, and the challenges associated with its use in agrifood systems, exploring solutions for improving nitrogen management in crop and livestock systems.
Publication
Livestock climate action in Rwanda
Rwanda’s livestock sector has expanded significantly in recent years, with growth in animal populations and livestock-derived products largely driven by government modernization initiatives.
Multimedia
Feed and nutrition
Animal health