Researchers and educators from Arkansas, Indiana and Virginia are working on a project to create a model that tracks feed, ventilation, manure and energy use in pork production, as well as exploring the use of pig manure in making biofuels.Karl VanDevender, professor and Extension engineer for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, stated that, "we're building on an earlier National Pork Board funded project that created a hog production life cycle analysis model. This carbon footprint calculator covers everything - from the grain that goes into feeding through the time the pig leaves the farm." "This new project builds on the previous model to include additional management strategies and economic tools and enables us to educate people on its use."
"Since a carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions correlate to energy expenditures, the carbon footprint calculator provides a way for swine producers to make informed decisions when designing and managing their farms. Ideally, the result will be improved management of pork production leading to increased profits and environmental protection."
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10/4/2011
