Quantification of the greenhouse gases mitigation strategies at the farm level Climate Change & Development

Abstract

Upon reviewing the most commonly used carbon calculators, this research has found out that a better tool is needed, specifically designed for the agricultural sector. The new tool should meet the following 3 basic requirements: (i) accuracy and credibility; (ii) comprehensiveness; and (iii) accessibility and easiness to use. There is extensive evidence on mitigation options for the livestock sector. The new tool should integrate these new findings, increasing the accuracy of its estimates. Not every stage of the production of a given item or service is taken into account and system boundaries are not always easy to define. Land use change and carbon sequestration are addressed in some instances, but still remain difficult to evaluate. The new tool should also be easy to use and the data required from the user should be easy to access or gather. The tool should be primarily developed for farmers. It should meet their need for easily and rapidly assessing the GHG emissions on farm. It should provide reliable estimates of emissions reduction upon mitigation strategy of choice.