African livestock production systems are not homogenous, and taking a one-size-fits-all approach to emissions reduction will not work. The global community needs to be more nuanced in our approach to transitioning to sustainable, low-emitting, and climate-resilient livestock on the continent.
With global climate talks increasingly acknowledging food and agriculture as a critical component, the livestock industry and diets that include animal-source foods find themselves in the crosshairs of the debate.
Animal agriculture is estimated to be responsible for some 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, 44% of which are methane.
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About the author
Appolinaire Djikeng
Professor Appolinaire Djikeng is the director general of the International Livestock Research Institute and CGIAR senior director of livestock-based systems. He was formerly professor and chair of tropical agriculture and sustainable development at the University of Edinburgh.
