Dairy farms cut methane emissions without reducing milk production through feed efficiency

Finnish dairy farms have significantly reduced methane emissions from cows by improving feed efficiency—without decreasing milk output—according to research by the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) and Viking Genetics, a Nordic cattle breeding cooperative.

The method focuses on breeding cows that convert feed into milk more efficiently, lowering methane emissions by 0.5–0.7% annually. Since 1990, methane emissions from dairy farming have dropped nearly 40%, returning to levels last seen in the late 1800s, even as milk production has roughly doubled.

At a farm in Hollola, southern Finland, around 70 heifers are being studied for their ability to utilize feed with minimal waste. Viking Genetics has developed a feed savings index to measure this trait, which is now a key factor in cattle breeding.

“We can improve this trait and pass it on to future generations,” said Johanna Aro, a breeding specialist at Viking Genetics. “The feed savings index has become increasingly important for farmers.”

Cows that use feed more efficiently tend to be lighter and healthier, further benefiting farmers. Research shows that microbes in cows’ digestive systems produce about 22 grams of methane per kilogram of dry feed—a figure that can be reduced through selective breeding.

### 3D cameras track emissions in real time
To refine breeding, Viking Genetics uses 3D camera systems in farms across Finland, Sweden, and Denmark. These cameras monitor feed consumption, weight changes, and energy-corrected milk yield to calculate the feed savings index.

“If this system can consistently provide high-quality data from multiple herds, it’s a major breakthrough,” said Martin Lidauer, a research professor at Luke. He noted that precise measurements help identify genetic traits that reduce emissions, including not just methane but also carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide—gases with even greater warming potential.

### Financial and environmental benefits
Reducing feed intake by 10% cuts methane emissions by the same amount, while also lowering costs for farmers. With major dairies pushing for carbon-neutral production, feed efficiency has become a priority.

“Farmers are increasingly focusing on this trait in breeding,” said Ilkka Pohjamo, CEO of Osuuskunta Fab, a cooperative providing artificial insemination services.

The approach aligns with broader climate goals, as Luke’s calculations show that current methane levels from cattle are now comparable to those of the late 19th century—despite modern farms producing far more milk.