Livestock

Cattle Welfare and Biodigester Systems on Dairy Farms

Biodigester systems processing cattle slurry offer welfare co-benefits including reduced ammonia exposure for housed cattle and improved bedding quality.

Key Facts

Anaerobic digestion reduces ammonia emissions from slurry stores by up to 80 percent
Digestate is an effective bedding material when separated and dried
Reduced ammonia in housing improves bovine respiratory welfare
Biodigesters also produce renewable biogas energy
Manure management systems affect hoof health through yard cleanliness

Welfare Considerations

High ammonia concentrations in cattle housing damage respiratory mucosa and increase susceptibility to respiratory disease. Wet and contaminated yards increase lameness incidence. Biodigester adoption can simultaneously address emissions and cattle welfare.

What You Can Do

Advocate for biodigester adoption incentives in farming policy
Support research linking manure management to cattle health outcomes
Engage with farm sustainability initiatives that include welfare co-benefits
Donate to farm animal welfare research programmes