Can sheep be bred to produce less methane without sacrificing productivity?
In this episode of the Pastoral Poddy, host Edgars Greste speaks with Ed Clayton, Livestock Research Officer with the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, about the science and practical realities behind low methane sheep.
Together they explore how methane is produced in ruminants, why emissions have become an important focus for the livestock industry, and how researchers are measuring methane production in individual sheep. The conversation also examines the NSW DPIRD Low Methane Sheep project, emerging opportunities in genetics and feed efficiency, research into pasture systems, and practical steps producers can take today to improve productivity while reducing emissions intensity.
Whether you're curious about the science or looking for practical on-farm insights, this episode offers a grounded discussion on one of the biggest conversations shaping the future of livestock production.
Episode timestamps
(00:00) Why methane matters and the role sheep play in the emissions conversation.
(06:30) Understanding how ruminants produce methane and its link to productivity.
(14:15) Inside the NSW DPIRD Low Methane Sheep project.
(23:45) Genetics, feed efficiency and opportunities for lower methane flocks.
(34:00) Practical steps producers can take to improve productivity and reduce emissions intensity.
Useful links
NSW DPIRD Low Emissions Agriculture Programhttps://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/climate-and-emergencies/climate-change/primary-industries-and-climate-change/low-emissions-agriculture
NSW DPIRD Emissions Researchhttps://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/climate-and-emergencies/climate-change/primary-industries-and-climate-change/low-emissions-agriculture/emissions-research
NSW On-Farm Carbon Advice Programhttps://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/climate-and-emergencies/climate-change/primary-industries-and-climate-change/low-emissions-agriculture/on-farm-carbon-advice
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Developmenthttps://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au
The Pastoral Poddy is proudly brought to you by Western Local Land Services in partnership with the New South Wales Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under the Primary Industries Productivity and Abatement program. This episode was mixed and produced by Grow Love Project.
