The Genetic Improvement of Forage Grasses and Legumes to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions

This technical document stresses that grasslands, while being one of the most important ecosystems in the world, are also a significant source of pollution including the greenhouse gases methane and nitrous oxide. It considers ways in which genetic improvement of grassland crops can reduce emissions and enhance carbon sequestration. In particular, if focuses on the following areas: reducing methane emissions from ruminant animals by modification of plant composition; reducing nitrous oxide emissions by making the use of nitrogen more efficient both in terms of going from soil to plant and in the animal; enhancing carbon sequestration through plant breeding; reducing emissions from fertiliser production.