Method for measuring greenhouse gas emissions of ruminants after administration of feed additive

Abstract

The present disclosure provides methods for administering monensin and / or 3-nitroxypropanol to an animal in order to provide a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the animal. In addition, the described methods effectively provide embodiments for generating and receiving carbon credits due to the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 536,816, filed September 6, 2023, pursuant to 35 USC § 119(e), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Background Technology and Summary of the Invention

[0004] In the modern world, there is a great need for mechanisms to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The mechanisms under study are broad and profound in nature. Therefore, almost every technological field faces the challenge of considering measures to potentially reduce its "carbon footprint" and strive to reflect environmental awareness.

[0005] In the agriculture and food sectors, research has been conducted on reducing greenhouse gases such as methane. To strive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions such as methane from animals, various active ingredients that can be fed to animals have been developed. Specifically, feeding animals monensin (Rumensin™) and 3-nitrooxypropanol (Bovaer™) can achieve a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions produced by animals, particularly ruminants. Furthermore, the availability of carbon credits provides farmers and producers with an incentive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, it is necessary to minimize greenhouse gas emissions in livestock farming in order to qualify for and obtain desired carbon credits.

[0006] Therefore, this disclosure provides a method for administering monensin and / or 3-nitrooxypropanol to animals to provide a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from said animals. Furthermore, the described method provides embodiments for generating and receiving carbon credits as a result of the reduction in said greenhouse gas emissions.

[0007] Monensin (also known as Rumensin™) is a feed additive approved by the US Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine for improving milk production efficiency, defined as the marketable solids-corrected milk produced per unit of feed intake, corrected for changes in body weight. For example, in growing cattle (including heifers), monensin increases the rate of weight gain and also prevents and controls coccidiosis. Monensin improves milk production efficiency in dairy cows by shifting the rumen bacteria to produce more propionate, a more efficient use of feed ingredients because it reduces the amount of energy consumed as carbon dioxide and methane. Figure 1Adjustments used to quantify the impact of monensin on greenhouse gas emissions have been summarized.

[0008] In lactating dairy cows, monensin significantly reduced dry matter intake (DMI) by 2.3% and increased milk yield by 2.3%. Due to significant heterogeneity observed in milk composition, the reported yield and component percentages can be used to calculate the solids-corrected milk (SCM) difference between the control and monensin treatments according to NRC 2001, resulting in a 0.5% increase in SCM with monensin. Therefore, a conservative positive increase of 0.5% can be used to assess the monensin effect on both SCM and milk yield. In dry cows, monensin trials have demonstrated a 2.7% reduction in dry matter intake.

[0009] The mechanism of action of monensin on milk production efficiency results in a reduction in methane production. The effects of feeding monensin to cattle include a direct reduction in CH4 emissions from gut fermentation and an indirect reduction in gut fermentation emissions through a reduction in DMI, with no negative health effects and positive benefits to milk production. The sustained benefits of feeding monensin to cattle are supported by multiple scientific studies that have measured reductions in CH4 emissions from gut fermentation. Due to monensin's effect on reducing DMI, the greenhouse gas impacts of feed crops and manure are also reduced, providing additional greenhouse gas benefits. These effects are taken into account through the processes and calculations described in this agreement.

[0010] Monensin reduces absolute emissions along the value chain when producing consumer goods. Gut methane is produced through the fermentation of feed regularly consumed by animals throughout the day. Because monensin works by reducing gut methane and feed intake, the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions associated with monensin feeding is permanent and irreversible. On days when monensin is not fed to animals, gut methane released into the environment increases by 3–5%.

[0011] Furthermore, a large body of peer-reviewed literature indicates that, depending on dosage and diet, 3-nitrooxypropanol (also known as 3-NOP or Bovaer™) can reduce gut methane emissions by approximately 30%, or 1 metric tonne (MT) of CO2, which can be modeled to provide more accurate estimates of the reduction. Assuming an average gut methane production of 4 MT of CO2 equivalent per year for dairy cows, 3-NOP could potentially permanently prevent 0.8 to 1.6 MT of CO2 per cow per year. If 3-NOP were implemented in 50% of the 7.9 million lactating dairy cows in the United States (USDA-NASS, 2023), 3.1 to 6.3 MMT of CO2 would be permanently prevented per year.

[0012] Without being bound by any theory, 3-NOP has a mode of action that works through the targeted oxidation of nickel in methyl-CoM reductase (MCR), leading to its inhibition in the final step of methane formation. After exerting its effect, 3-NOP is converted into substances naturally produced during rumen fermentation. The effects of 3-NOP on methane reduction and productivity have been assessed, and depending on dosage and diet, its effect on methane reduction is approximately 30% or 1 MT CO2, which can be modeled to provide more accurate estimates of the reduction. 3-NOP reduces gut methane and thus reduces absolute emissions during the production of consumer products throughout the value chain. On days when animals are not fed 3-NOP, gut methane released into the environment increases by approximately 30% or 1 MT compared to days when 3-NOP is fed. The emission reduction associated with 3-NOP feeding is permanent and irreversible.

[0013] Other objects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, it should be understood that although the detailed description and specific examples illustrate particular embodiments of the invention, they are given by way of illustration only, and various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art based on this detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The detailed description is specifically based on the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 Adjustments for quantifying the effects of monensin on greenhouse gas emissions are shown.

[0016] Figure 2 A general diagram of the GHG assessment boundary is shown, indicating which SSRs are included within or excluded from the monensin boundary in Example 1.

[0017] Figure 3 A general illustration of the GHG evaluation boundary is shown, indicating which SSRs are included within or excluded from the 3-NOP boundary in Example 2. Detailed Implementation

[0018] This article describes various aspects for reducing greenhouse gas-related emissions. For example, the reduction of the greenhouse gas methane can be achieved according to the aspects described herein. Furthermore, the described methods can utilize the administration of monensin and / or 3-nitrooxypropanol to animals to achieve the desired effect.

[0019] In any of the aspects described herein, the method may include the use of carbon credits. Generally, carbon credits refer to a mechanism for offsetting emissions of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases. For example, one carbon credit may represent a reduction or removal of one metric tonne of carbon dioxide or an equivalent amount of greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon credits may also be referred to as carbon offsetting.

[0020] In all the aspects described herein, the methods may include i) steps of generating carbon credits through reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, or ii) steps of obtaining carbon credit eligibility through reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, or iii) steps of applying for carbon credits through reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, or iv) steps of receiving carbon credits through reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, or v) any combination thereof.

[0021] Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions can be calculated as described herein. For example, Examples 1 and 2 provide various formulas and calculations that can be used to quantify reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

[0022] Various embodiments of the present invention are described herein. In an illustrative aspect, a method for reducing emissions is provided, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to an animal, wherein the method provides a direct reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. In one embodiment, the direct reduction is provided through intestinal fermentation. In one embodiment, the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0023] Without being bound by any theoretical framework, it is proposed that monensin-influenced microbes cause a shift in the microbiota towards fewer hydrogen-producing bacteria and more propionate-producing bacteria. Propionate competes with methanogens for hydrogen, resulting in a reduction in energy loss in the form of carbon dioxide and methane. As a percentage of total energy, when baseline dry matter intake is included in the model, monensin reduces direct gut methane emissions in dairy cows by approximately 3.6%.

[0024] In an illustrative aspect, a method for reducing emissions is provided, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to an animal, wherein the method provides an indirect reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. In one embodiment, the indirect reduction is provided through a reduction in the animal's dry matter intake (DMI). In one embodiment, the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0025] Feed intake accounts for 60% to 80% of methane production. Therefore, one way to reduce methane emissions is to reduce dry matter intake. However, this must be done without reducing productivity, so as not to sacrifice the ultimate goal of efficient product production in livestock farming. Because monensin promotes more efficient carbohydrate metabolism to obtain more energy from each pound of dry matter consumed, animals exhibit a combination of reduced DMI and increased productivity. Use of monensin in lactating dairy cows resulted in a 2.3% reduction in dry matter intake, and trials have shown a 2.7% reduction in dry matter intake in dairy cows and a 4.3% reduction in DMI in growing animals.

[0026] In an illustrative aspect, a method for reducing emissions is provided, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to animals, wherein the method provides a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions generated upstream by crops. In one embodiment, the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0027] Greenhouse gas emissions from forage cultivation can be calculated and characterized by their carbon footprint based on the intake of corresponding feed ingredients (e.g., kg CO2e / kg feed ingredients). Dry matter intake can be part of this equation, which in turn reduces the impact of greenhouse gas emissions from the process of growing forage for cattle. These reductions can be quantified as subtracting project emissions from baseline emissions to quantify the total net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

[0028] In an illustrative aspect, a method for reducing emissions is provided, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to an animal, wherein the method provides a reduction in downstream greenhouse gas emissions generated from feces. In one embodiment, the greenhouse gas is methane. In one embodiment, the feces are generated by the animal.

[0029] Manure greenhouse gas emissions can be calculated using methods consistent with the quantitative approaches of both the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). A key component in the calculations of both methane and nitrous oxide is the volatile solids produced by cattle, with dry matter intake being a contributing factor. Therefore, reducing dry matter intake through monensin feeding can reduce the production of both methane and nitrous oxide in manure. The positive effect of monensin on solids-corrected milk production also has a small impact on the intermediate N retention equation and the resulting calculation of manure N₂O emissions. These reductions can be quantified as emissions and subtracted from baseline emissions to quantify the reduction in total net greenhouse gas emissions.

[0030] In any illustrative respect, the method comprises the step of administering 3-nitrooxypropanol to the animal in place of monensin or in addition to monensin. Specifically, 3-nitrooxypropanol (also known as 3-NOP or Bovaer™) may be used to implement the method of this disclosure.

[0031] In any illustrative aspect, the method further includes the step of generating carbon credits through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. In any illustrative aspect, the method further includes the step of qualifying for carbon credits through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. In any illustrative aspect, the method further includes the step of applying for carbon credits through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. In any illustrative aspect, the method further includes the step of receiving carbon credits through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

[0032] In any illustrative respect, the animal is a ruminant. In one embodiment, the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of: cattle, goats, sheep, giraffes, bison, European bison, yaks, buffalo, deer, camels, alpacas, llamas, wildebeest, antelopes, pronghorn, and blue antelope.

[0033] In one embodiment, the ruminants are raised for meat production. In another embodiment, the ruminants are raised for dairy production.

[0034] In one embodiment, the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of: cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goats. In one embodiment, the ruminant is a bovine. In one embodiment, the ruminant is a buffalo. In one embodiment, the ruminant is a sheep. In one embodiment, the ruminant is a goat. In one embodiment, the ruminant is a beef cattle. In one embodiment, the ruminant is a dairy cow. In one embodiment, the ruminant is a calf.

[0035] The following numbered embodiments are contemplated and non-limiting:

[0036] 1. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to animals, wherein the method provides a direct reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

[0037] 2. The method described under Clause 1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the direct reduction is provided through intestinal fermentation.

[0038] 3. The method described under Clause 1, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0039] 4. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to animals, wherein the method provides an indirect reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

[0040] 5. The method described under Clause 4, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the indirect reduction is provided by a reduction in the animal's dry matter intake (DMI).

[0041] 6. The method described under Clause 4, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0042] 7. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to animals, wherein the method provides a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions generated upstream by crops.

[0043] 8. The method described pursuant to Clause 7, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0044] 9. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to animals, wherein the method provides a reduction in downstream greenhouse gas emissions generated from feces.

[0045] 10. The method described under Clause 9, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0046] 11. The method described under Clause 9, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the feces are produced by the animal.

[0047] 12. The method pursuant to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the method further comprises the step of generating carbon credits through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

[0048] 13. The method described in accordance with any one of Clauses 1 to 11, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the method further comprises the step of obtaining carbon credit eligibility through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

[0049] 14. The method pursuant to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the method further comprises the step of applying for carbon credits through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

[0050] 15. The method pursuant to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the method further comprises the step of receiving carbon credits through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

[0051] 16. The method described in accordance with any one of Clauses 1 to 15, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the animal is a ruminant.

[0052] 17. The method described under Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of: cattle, goats, sheep, giraffes, bison, European bison, yaks, buffalo, deer, camels, alpacas, llamas, wildebeest, antelopes, pronghorn, and blue antelope.

[0053] 18. The method described under Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is fed for meat production.

[0054] 19. The method described under Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminants are fed for dairy production.

[0055] 20. The method described under Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of: cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goats.

[0056] 21. The method described pursuant to Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a bovine.

[0057] 22. The method described pursuant to Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant animal is a buffalo.

[0058] 23. The method described under Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a sheep.

[0059] 24. The method described pursuant to Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a goat.

[0060] 25. The method described pursuant to Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a beef cattle.

[0061] 26. The method described under Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a cow.

[0062] 27. The method described under Clause 16, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a calf.

[0063] 28. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering 3-nitrooxypropanol to an animal, wherein the method provides a direct reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

[0064] 29. The method described under Clause 28, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the direct reduction is provided through intestinal fermentation.

[0065] 30. The method described pursuant to Clause 28, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0066] 31. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering 3-nitrooxypropanol to an animal, wherein the method provides an indirect reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

[0067] 32. The method described under Clause 31, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the indirect reduction is provided by a reduction in the dry matter intake (DMI) of the animal.

[0068] 33. The method described pursuant to Clause 31, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0069] 34. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering 3-nitrooxypropanol to animals, wherein the method provides a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions generated upstream by crops.

[0070] 35. The method described pursuant to Clause 34, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0071] 36. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering 3-nitrooxypropanol to an animal, wherein the method provides a reduction in downstream greenhouse gas emissions generated from feces.

[0072] 37. The method described pursuant to Clause 36, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

[0073] 38. The method described under Clause 36, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the feces are produced by the animal.

[0074] 39. The method described pursuant to any one of Clauses 28 to 38, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the method further comprises the step of generating carbon credits through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

[0075] 40. The method described in any of Clauses 28 to 38, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the method further comprises the step of obtaining carbon credit eligibility through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

[0076] 41. The method described under any one of Clauses 28 to 38, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the method further comprises the step of applying for carbon credits through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

[0077] 42. The method described under any one of Clauses 28 to 38, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the method further comprises the step of receiving carbon credits through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

[0078] 43. The method described pursuant to any one of Clauses 28 to 42, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the animal is a ruminant.

[0079] 44. The method described under Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of: cattle, goats, sheep, giraffes, bison, European bison, yaks, buffalo, deer, camels, alpacas, llamas, wildebeest, antelopes, pronghorn, and blue antelope.

[0080] 45. The method described under Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is fed for meat production.

[0081] 46. ​​The method described under Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is fed for dairy production.

[0082] 47. The method described under Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is selected from the group consisting of: cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goats.

[0083] 48. The method described pursuant to Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a bovine.

[0084] 49. The method described under Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a buffalo.

[0085] 50. The method described under Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a sheep.

[0086] 51. The method described pursuant to Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a goat.

[0087] 52. The method described pursuant to Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a beef cattle.

[0088] 53. The method described under Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a cow.

[0089] 54. The method described under Clause 43, any other suitable clause, or any combination of suitable clauses, wherein the ruminant is a calf.

[0090] Example

[0091] Example 1

[0092] Exemplary protocols and analyses for greenhouse gas assessment

[0093] This example provides an exemplary protocol for assessing greenhouse gas emissions from cattle fed monensin. Monensin is fed at the following dosages, depending on the cattle type. For some dairy cows (dry and lactating cows), the total mixed ration (“complete feed”) contains 11 to 22 g / ton of monensin based on 100% dry matter. For other dairy cows, lactating cows are fed 185 to 660 mg / head / day of monensin using a component feeding system (including top dress), and dry cows are fed 115 to 410 mg / head / day of monensin. These feeds provide dairy cows with similar amounts of monensin, which they will obtain by consuming a total mixed ration containing 11 to 22 g / ton of monensin based on 100% dry matter. Alternatively, for heifers and beef cattle, 200 mg of monensin is fed per head per day.

[0094] Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Assessment Boundaries

[0095] The GHG assessment boundary describes the GHG sources, sinks, and reservoirs (SSRs) being assessed to determine the net change in GHG emissions generated by the project.

[0096] The GHG assessment boundary covers GHG SSRs that could be significantly affected by the activities in this instance. This includes CH4 emissions from gut fermentation, CH4 and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from manure management, and CO2 and N2O emissions from feed production. Because the implementation practices involve reducing the amount of feed provided to cattle, leakage involving the diversion of produced feed to other uses or other cattle farming activities outside the boundary of the instance was assessed, and it was concluded that leakage is not applicable to the current project because the instance does not face a risk of more than 5% reduction in crop yield for any particular feed component, as the data support a quantification of GHG reductions in forage cultivation.

[0097] Figure 2 A general diagram of the GHG assessment boundary is provided, indicating which SSRs are included within or excluded from the boundary. Table 1 provides a list of GHG SSRs that may be affected by the project and indicates which SSRs must be included in the GHG assessment boundary.

[0098] Table 1: Description of the assessed Sources, Sinks, and Reservoirs (SSRs)

[0099]

[0100] Quantitative analysis of greenhouse gases (GHG)

[0101] The reduction in GHG emissions from an instance is quantified by comparing actual project emissions to baseline emissions. Baseline emissions are a quantification of GHG emissions that would have occurred at sources within the GHG assessment boundary in the absence of an instance. Emissions refer to actual GHG emissions occurring at sources within the GHG assessment boundary during the reporting period. Emissions must be subtracted from baseline emissions to quantify the total net reduction in GHG emissions from the instance (Equation 1).

[0102] (Equation 1)

[0103] in:

[0104]

[0105] Table 2: Cattle Types

[0106]

[0107]

[0108] A. Example GHG emissions

[0109] Calculate example GHG emissions based on Equation 2:

[0110] (Equation 2)

[0111] in:

[0112]

[0113] 1. Forage crop cultivation

[0114] Feed nutrient composition was calculated using values ​​from the 2021 NASEM Feed Bank Manual. GHG emissions from farmed feed were calculated and represented according to Equations 3 and 4. Feed emission factors include all emissions up to the dairy farm and do not differentiate between farm-grown and purchased feed. Monensin use does not affect feed emission factors.

[0115] (Equation 3)

[0116] (Equation 4)

[0117] in:

[0118]

[0119] Table 3 lists examples of emission factors for common feeds.

[0120] Table 3: Examples of common feed ingredients used as feed emission factors

[0121]

[0122]

[0123] For feed ingredients for which data is not publicly available, project developers can use reasonable estimates derived from published data. Table 4 highlights examples of emission factor assumptions used for other feed ingredients, with their corresponding references.

[0124] Table 4: Examples of Hypothetical Feed Emission Factors

[0125]

[0126]

[0127] 2. Intestinal fermentation

[0128] Project GHG emissions from gut fermentation were calculated using the Level 2 approach from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), 2019. Feed nutrient composition was calculated using values ​​from the 2021 NASEM Feed Bank Handbook. Project emissions were calculated according to Equation 5.

[0129] (Equation 5)

[0130] in:

[0131]

[0132] Calculate the methane emissions produced through intestinal fermentation based on Equation 6.

[0133] (Equation 6)

[0134] in:

[0135]

[0136] Use Equation 7 to calculate the emission factor.

[0137] (Equation 7)

[0138] in:

[0139]

[0140] Table 5: Bovine type and methane conversion factor

[0141]

[0142] 3. Fecal management

[0143] Calculate the GHG emissions from the production and management of feces based on equations 8 to 14.

[0144] (Equation 8)

[0145] in:

[0146]

[0147] 3A. Fecal methane emissions

[0148] Project methane emissions from manure management were calculated using a Level 2 method consistent with the quantitative methods used by both the IPCC and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It also utilized the methodologies used in the Climate Action Reserve's U.S. Livestock Project Agreement. Feed nutrient composition and digestibility were calculated using 2021 NASEM Feed Bank Handbook values.

[0149] (Equation 9)

[0150] in:

[0151]

[0152] (Equation 10)

[0153] in:

[0154]

[0155]

[0156] (Equation 11)

[0157] in:

[0158]

[0159] Table 6: Maximum methane production capacity of cow manure

[0160]

[0161] 3B. Fecal nitrous oxide emissions

[0162] Nitrous oxide emissions from manure are calculated according to the IPCC and IDF 2020 guidelines, which include minimum requirements for "direct and indirect N2O emissions from excrement in barns, storage, and treatment." Co-digestion values ​​are not affected by the project implementation plan and are not included in the calculation. Project N2O emissions are calculated as follows:

[0163] (Equation 12)

[0164] in:

[0165]

[0166] 3B1. Direct N2O emissions from fecal management

[0167] Calculating direct N2O emissions requires multiplying the total nitrogen excretion in each type of septic system by the emission factor of that type of system and summing the resulting values. Emissions are calculated using Equations 13 and 14.

[0168] (Equation 13)

[0169] (Equation 14)

[0170] in:

[0171]

[0172] Table 7: Default emission factors for direct N2O emissions from fecal management

[0173]

[0174]

[0175]

[0176] The nitrogen excretion rate of lactating cows was calculated using equations 15 to 17, and the nitrogen excretion rate of all other cow types was calculated using equation 16.

[0177] (Equation 15)

[0178] (Equation 16)

[0179] (Equation 17)

[0180] in:

[0181]

[0182] The nitrogen fraction retained by lactating animals is calculated according to Equation 18.

[0183] (Equation 18)

[0184] in:

[0185]

[0186] Table 8: Data used to estimate Level 1 N retention scores for various cattle types

[0187]

[0188] 3B1. Indirect N2O emissions from fecal leachate

[0189] Nitrogen is lost through runoff and leach into the soil from the solid storage of manure in outdoor areas and livestock farms. The amount of nitrous oxide released through leaching should be calculated using Equation 19.

[0190] (Equation 19)

[0191] in:

[0192]

[0193] 3B2. Composed of NH3 and NO x Indirect N2O emissions from volatilization

[0194] Nitrogen in its volatile ammonia form can deposit at downwind sites in the sewage treatment area and contribute to indirect N2O emissions. This is achieved through the release of NH3 and NO. x The amount of nitrous oxide emitted through volatilization should be calculated using Equation 20:

[0195] (Equation 20)

[0196] in:

[0197]

[0198]

[0199] Table 9: Due to NH3 and NO x The default values ​​for the volatile matter and the N loss fraction obtained from N leaching from fecal management.

[0200]

[0201] Table 10

[0202]

[0203]

[0204] Table 11

[0205]

[0206] Table 11 (continued)

[0207]

[0208]

[0209] Baseline GHG emissions

[0210] Baseline emissions are calculated using Equation 21 and the other equations below, as well as the adjustment factors in Table 12.

[0211]

[0212]

[0213] in:

[0214]

[0215]

[0216]

[0217] Table 12: Baseline Adjustment Factor

[0218]

[0219] leakage

[0220] During the development of this agreement, an assessment was conducted to determine the need to consider market shifting leakage associated with reductions in cattle feed. The leakage principle indicates that feed reductions resulting from project implementation will be diverted to other uses, and associated GHG emissions will be shifted rather than eliminated. Since there is data to support the quantification of GHG reductions in project feed production, there is currently no risk of crop yield reductions exceeding 5% for any specific feed component. Table 12 presents the impact of project implementation on the reduction in dry matter intake used to quantify GHG reductions (adjustments for project emissions [i.e., during Rumensin feeding] were used to calculate baseline values). Because the maximum reduction in feed production within this agreement is less than 5%, leakage is not relevant to this project and will not be deducted from credits generated under this agreement.

[0221] monitor

[0222] The monitoring parameters are shown in Table 13 below.

[0223] Table 13: Monitoring Parameters

[0224]

[0225]

[0226] Example 2

[0227] Other exemplary protocols and analyses for greenhouse gas assessment

[0228] This implementation provides an exemplary protocol for assessing greenhouse gas emissions from cattle fed 3-nitrooxypropanol (also known as 3-NOP). 3-NOP is fed to dairy cows (dry and lactating cows) at a dose of 40-80 mg 3-NOP / kg total dietary DM (36 to 72 g / ton).

[0229] Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Assessment Boundaries

[0230] The GHG assessment boundary describes the GHG sources, sinks, and reservoirs (SSRs) being assessed to determine the net change in GHG emissions generated by the project.

[0231] The GHG assessment boundary covers GHG SSRs that may be significantly affected by the activities in this instance. Emissions from the manufacture of 3-NOP are included in the assessment boundary. In this instance, emissions from bovine gut fermentation are reduced through 3-NOP. Therefore, the relevant boundary involved in this agreement is limited to GHG emissions from 3-NOP manufacture and gut fermentation. All other GHG emission sources are excluded from the assessment.

[0232] Figure 3A general diagram of the GHG assessment boundary is provided, indicating which SSRs are included within or excluded from the boundary. Table 14 provides a list of GHG SSRs that may be affected by the project and indicates which SSRs must be included in the GHG assessment boundary.

[0233] Table 14: Description of the assessed Sources, Sinks, and Reservoirs (SSRs)

[0234]

[0235] Quantitative analysis of greenhouse gases (GHG)

[0236] For this example, the GHG reduction for each cattle type was quantified based on dose + NDF model estimates that take into account 3-NOP dose (mg / kg) and dietary NDF (DM%). This reduction was applied to baseline emissions by cattle type and summed according to Equation 39 to calculate the total example GHG emission reduction resulting from practices implemented during the reporting period.

[0237]

[0238] in:

[0239]

[0240] (Equation 39)

[0241] Baseline intestinal methane emission quantification

[0242] Baseline GHG emissions from gut fermentation followed the Level 2 approach of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, 2019) and were calculated according to Equation 40:

[0243]

[0244] in:

[0245]

[0246] (Equation 40)

[0247] The emission factor is calculated in Equation 4.2 using IPCC 2019 Equation 41.

[0248]

[0249] in:

[0250]

[0251] (Equation 41)

[0252] Based on cattle type and diet, as well as dietary nutrient composition, appropriate Y values ​​were selected from Table 15 (adapted from IPCC 2019) using the weighted average of feed composition and feed values ​​from the NASEM (2021) feed library. m .

[0253] Table 15: Methane Conversion Factor (Ym)

[0254]

[0255] Project GHG emission reduction quota

[0256] The total reduction in GHG emissions from the project is calculated based on Equation 39:

[0257]

[0258] in:

[0259]

[0260] (Equation 39)

[0261] The reduction in GHG caused by the implementation of 3-NOP feeding is calculated according to Equation 42:

[0262]

[0263] in:

[0264]

[0265] (Equation 42)

[0266] Quantitative analysis of intestinal methane-regulating factors in the project

[0267] The effect of 3-NOP on methane production was quantified in Equation 43 using a dose-plus-NDF model that considers 3-NOP dose (mg / kg) and dietary NDF (DM%). This equation was chosen to maintain consistency in baseline and project quantification, as the IPCC baseline equation does not consider dietary fat and instead uses dietary NDF to determine the appropriate Ym grade.

[0268]

[0269] in:

[0270]

[0271] (Equation 43)

[0272] GHG quantification based on product manufacturing

[0273] The manufacturing-based GHG associated with 3-NOP production is supplied by the manufacturer based on ISO standards 14040.44:2006 and ISO 14067:2018. The deduction for reduced GHG in the project is calculated according to Equation 44.

[0274]

[0275] in:

[0276]

[0277] (Equation 44)

[0278] leakage

[0279] During the development of this agreement, it was assessed that market shift leakage associated with reductions in cattle feed needed to be considered. 3-NOP does not affect any GHG emission sources beyond the established GHG boundary (see [link to GHG boundary]). Figure 3 Therefore, the leak is unrelated to the project and will not result in any deduction of credits generated under the agreement. 3-NOP works by reducing intestinal methane; therefore, the reduction in GHG emissions associated with feeding 3-NOP is an irreversible and permanent reduction in emissions.

[0280] Monitoring / Verification

[0281] The monitoring parameters are shown in Table 16 below.

[0282] Table 16: Monitoring Parameters

[0283]

[0284]

Claims

1. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to animals, wherein the method provides a direct reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the direct reduction is provided through intestinal fermentation.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

4. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to animals, wherein the method provides an indirect reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the indirect reduction is provided by a reduction in the animal's dry matter intake (DMI).

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

7. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to animals, wherein the method provides a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions generated upstream by crops.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

9. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering monensin to animals, wherein the method provides a reduction in downstream greenhouse gas emissions generated from feces.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the feces are produced by the animal.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the method further comprises the step of generating carbon credits through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the method further comprises the step of obtaining carbon credit eligibility through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the method further comprises the step of applying for carbon credits through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the method further comprises the step of receiving carbon credits through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the animal is a ruminant.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the ruminant is a beef cattle.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the ruminant is a dairy cow.

19. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering 3-nitrooxypropanol to an animal, wherein the method provides a direct reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the direct reduction is provided through intestinal fermentation.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

22. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering 3-nitrooxypropanol to an animal, wherein the method provides an indirect reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the indirect reduction is provided by a reduction in the animal's dry matter intake (DMI).

24. The method of claim 22, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

25. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering 3-nitrooxypropanol to animals, wherein the method provides a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions generated upstream by crops.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

27. A method for reducing emissions, the method comprising the step of administering 3-nitrooxypropanol to an animal, wherein the method provides a reduction in downstream greenhouse gas emissions from feces.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the greenhouse gas is methane.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein the feces are produced by the animal.

30. The method of any one of claims 19 to 29, wherein the method further comprises the step of generating carbon credits through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

31. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 29, wherein the method further comprises the step of obtaining carbon credit eligibility through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

32. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 29, wherein the method further comprises the step of applying for carbon credits through the reduction of said greenhouse gas emissions.

33. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 29, wherein the method further comprises the step of receiving carbon credits through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

34. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 29, wherein the animal is a ruminant.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the ruminant is a beef cattle.

36. The method of claim 34, wherein the ruminant is a dairy cow.

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