P30914 LRG Newsletter December 2014_FA

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Updates from the Research Networks
The Feed and
Nutrition Network
The Feed and Nutrition Network (FNN) has
undertaken several projects, which are also
integrated in the FACCE-JPI-funded GLOBAL
NETWORK project:
(1) developing a rumen methane mitigation
database - this initiative will provide
information on the most effective
methane mitigation practices based on
published research data;
(2) developing of a rumen methane
mitigation and nitrogen efficiency
database, which will be based on
individual animal data and is intended
to provide information for more robust
prediction models;
(3) publishing a review paper summarizing
recommended practices for conducting
in vitro experiments aimed at rumen
methane mitigation
(4) publishing a reviewer paper on
recommended experimental design and
methods for conducting in vivo trials
aimed at rumen methane mitigation.
For further information contact
Alex Hristov
The Manure
Management Network
The manure management network (MMN)
was established to facilitate international
collaboration between scientists focusing
on reducing greenhouse gas emissions
from livestock through improvement of
manure management. Progress to date
of the planned network activities shows
that focus on greenhouse gas emissions
only is not enough to achieve the expected
collaboration between countries. Instead, a
more integrated approach focusing on the
negative impacts of manure management,
and also on the value of manure as a
resource is needed.
The main achievement of the MMN this
year was the introduction of the Manure
Knowledge Kiosk (MKK). The MKK is an
initiative of the Food and Agricultural
Organization of the United Nations (FAO), as
partner of the Global Agenda for Sustainable
Livestock (GASL), and the MMN, and is a
project funded by the Climate and Clean Air
Coalition (CCAC).
The action plan of the MMN for the coming
months will be:
• To reframe the main scope of the
network, to consider manure as a
resource with valuable components as
nutrients and organic matter rather than
waste or a source of emissions.
• To strengthen focus on technical means
and practices; to improve communication
with farmers and other stakeholders
interested in learning more information
about how to mitigate greenhouse gas
emissions and increase the value of
manure. The following actions will be
undertaken:
- Develop a best practice guide
on how to measure greenhouse
gas emissions from manure
management
- Make a compilation of practical
mitigation options for farmers and
policy makers, and select the top 10
options per country
• To consolidate and expand the MKK
The Manure Management Network is
currently being led by Theun Vellinga from
the Netherlands, and professor La Van Kinh
from Vietnam. To stimulate participation of
other members of the network, the MMN
is considering the possibility to rotate
leadership among other countries.
If you are interested in this opportunity
please contact Theun Vellinga