Reducing scope 3 emissions from pig feed

This practice abstract presents a feeding strategy to reduce Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions in pig production systems by replacing imported soybean protein with lower-impact alternatives.

Feed production is the largest source of emissions in pig farming, particularly when imported soybean is associated with land use change. The approach tested at the University of Leeds replaced soybean protein with rapeseed, sunflower, beans and peas, supplemented with amino acids.

Results showed no reduction in final animal weight or average daily gain, while the global warming potential associated with feed production was reduced by almost 20%. The practice demonstrates how feed formulation can contribute to lower-emission livestock systems while maintaining productive performance.