GWP* Project

Many will be aware that Global Dairy Platform is coordinating a project on behalf of a number of global ruminant sector organisations (beef, dairy and sheep) to better understand  the scientific evidence base and the implications of applying the GWP* approach to quantify methane emissions in the atmosphere.  Under the current GWP₁₀₀ approach used by the UNFCCC, methane is treated in the same way as carbon in the atmosphere.  In reality, methane is actually a short-lived climate pollutant, (carbon is a long-lived carbon pollutant remaining in the atmosphere for 100’s or even thousands of years), with a half life in the region of 12 years.  The GWP* approach requires any analysis to appreciate the individual gases as opposed to the ‘basket’ of gases that has become commonplace under the GWP₁₀₀ model.

The GWP* model, initially suggested by climate scientists from Oxford University UK, is starting to gain momentum as more detailed papers are published.

This project has already commissioned a literature review (not yet published) to better understand the methane science and the potential benefits and disadvantages for the global ruminant sector of applying GWP*.  In addition to the literature review the project will commission a modelling phase to appreciate impact under a number of scenarios.  In designing the modelling approach and level of detail required for the modelling, a recent meeting took place with Professor Dave Frame of Victoria University, New Zealand ( a co—author with the Oxford group) organized by Dairy Companies of New Zealand.  This meeting focused on developing a model to represent a number potential livestock production scenarios globally involving comparability, economic and even nutritional aspects so that if the GWP* model was applied at a global level and, what potential ‘methane’ and policy implications need to be considered.

If you are interested in becoming a funding partner in this project, please contact brian.lindsay@dairysustainabilityframework.org