Sheep's Carbon Footprint - Welsh Hillsides vs. Good Pasture

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In summary, a statement on Radio 4 pointed out that sheep on Welsh hillsides have a bigger carbon footprint due to living longer and producing more CO2 and methane. However, if the sheep weren't there, other animals would consume the grass and also produce greenhouse gases. It is difficult to calculate the exact impact without access to the original claim. This remark highlights the complexity of environmental issues.
  • #1
sophiecentaur
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I heard a statement on Radio 4 (Costing the Earth, perhaps?) pointing out that sheep on Welsh hillsides have a bigger carbon footprint than the sheep which are reared on good quality pasture. This is on account of the fact that they are actually living longer and doing more in the way of CO2 and methane production. But then I thought - if the sheep weren't up on the hills eating what little grass there was, wouldn't it get eaten by an increasing population of other consumers- rabbits, snails etc., which would also be producing greenhouse gases? Would there, in fact, be less 'gas' produced when you do a total costing of the situation?
Has anyone done the sums?
 
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  • #2
To do the sums (already a very difficult endeavor), one would need to know EXACTLY what the assertion is, and a loose paraphrase can easily miss important details. It is thus of primary importance that one have access to the original claim, before attempting a calculation. Do you have a link to a video/podcast/transcript or can you somehow quote the exact words of the assertion?
 
  • #3
I think the remark was made in order to show that things are never as clear cut as people assume.
 

1. How does the carbon footprint of sheep on Welsh hillsides compare to those on good pasture?

The carbon footprint of sheep on Welsh hillsides is generally higher compared to those on good pasture. This is because sheep on hillsides require more energy to move around and forage for food, which results in more carbon emissions from their activities.

2. What factors contribute to the carbon footprint of sheep on Welsh hillsides?

The main factors that contribute to the carbon footprint of sheep on Welsh hillsides include the type and quality of the land, the breed of sheep, and the farming practices used. Steeper and poorer quality land requires more energy for sheep to move and forage, resulting in a higher carbon footprint.

3. How can farmers reduce the carbon footprint of sheep on Welsh hillsides?

Farmers can reduce the carbon footprint of sheep on Welsh hillsides by implementing sustainable farming practices such as rotational grazing, using renewable energy sources, and managing the land to improve its quality. They can also use more efficient breeds of sheep that require less energy to forage.

4. What are the environmental benefits of sheep on good pasture compared to those on Welsh hillsides?

Sheep on good pasture have a lower carbon footprint and can help sequester carbon in the soil through their grazing activities. They also contribute to biodiversity and help maintain the health of the land. In contrast, sheep on Welsh hillsides can have a negative impact on the environment due to their higher carbon footprint and potential overgrazing.

5. How does the carbon footprint of sheep on Welsh hillsides impact the overall sustainability of sheep farming?

The carbon footprint of sheep on Welsh hillsides is a significant factor in the overall sustainability of sheep farming. High carbon emissions can contribute to climate change and have a negative impact on the environment. Therefore, it is important for farmers to implement sustainable practices to reduce the carbon footprint of sheep farming on Welsh hillsides and promote long-term sustainability.

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