International Center for Tropical Agriculture

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N2OSoils Improved forage grassesDecember 2019  Livestock in sub-Saharan Africa has high GHG emission intensities due to low feed quality, mainly relying on natural pastures and crop residues.The livestock sector contributes significantly to climate change with about 10-15% of all human-induced greenhouse gases (GHG).Climate change10-15 %Demand for animal source foods is rising due to growing population and urbanization. In Africa, where current consumption is low, this provides significant opportunities for income generation and better nutrition. Improved forages include perennial grasses such as Brachiaria and Panicum  which can increase feed quantity and quality and therefore livestock productivitySylvia Sarah NyawiraPost doctoral scientist, Agro-ecosystems and sustainable landscapes (ASL) research areas.nyawira@cgiar.orgBirthe PaulScientist, Tropical Forages Program b.paul@cgiar.orgLess nitrogen leaching and gaseous losses (N2O) through reduced soil nitrificationMitigate greenhouse gas emissions through reducing CH4 emissions from enteric fermentation per unit of livestock product by 25%25%More soil carbon through high soil organic matter input from above and below ground biomass–2 to 3 fold higher sequestration rates compared to annual cropping systemsx2x3Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) is the main component of soil organic matter which acts as the basis of soil fertility and supports plant growth by improving soil structure, aeration and water infiltration.Soil erosion, the removal of the most fertile top layer of soil through wind, water and tillage, is the #1 threat to our planet's soils. Over 80% of land degradation in sub-Saharan Africa is due to soil erosion.Better soil health through higher and diverse microbial population and high microbial activity, which can increase resistance to drought and pest and diseasesBetter soil structure through binding soil particles, improved aggregate stability and infiltrationLess soil erosion, up to 70% reduction in soil losses     70%Soil and climate benefits of improved forage grasses

Soil and climate benefits of improved forage grasses

https://cgspace.cgiar.org/bitstream/10568/107153/1/Foragaes%20Factsheet_A4_v5.pdf

Soil and climate benefits of improved forage grasses

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