PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY AND CH₄ EMISSIONS IN BRAZILIAN LIVESTOCK FARMING

Abstract

Cattle farming is one of the most important activities in Brazilian agribusiness, and is also one of the main sources of enteric methane (CH₄) emissions, a gas with high global warming potential. Considering the growing demand for sustainable practices, it is essential to understand the dynamics of livestock emissions. This study aimed to analyze the evolution of the cattle herd and CH₄ emissions between 2010 and 2022 in the five Brazilian regions, with emphasis on the states of Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso, Goiás, Minas Gerais, and Pará. The research adopted a quantitative, exploratory-descriptive approach, based on a literature review and secondary data obtained from official databases. Production and environmental indicators were constructed, and the data were statistically treated with the help of Excel 2019 software and the graphs plotted in OriginLab 8 software. The results indicated that the Central-West region leads in number of animals and emissions, especially the state of Mato Grosso. However, a trend toward stabilization of emissions was observed in some states, suggesting greater productive efficiency and adoption of mitigating practices. Pará showed a significant increase in herd size with proportionally lower growth in emissions, while the Southeast and South maintained or reduced their absolute emissions. It is concluded that the volume of CH₄ emitted is not directly related to herd size, but is strongly influenced by public policies, land use, and level of technological intensification. The implementation of regional mitigation strategies is essential to promote environmentally efficient and economically viable livestock farming.