Quantifying and Mitigating Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Egg-Laying Hen Farming: A Path Towards Carbon Neutrality

This study presents a comprehensive framework for assessing and mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in commercial egg-laying hen farming in Uttaradit Province, with the aim of achieving carbon neutrality within the poultry sector. Employing a detailed life cycle assessment (LCA) over a 450-day production period, this research identifies key sources of emissions, with feed consumption identified as the largest contributor, followed by water use and energy demands. To address these emissions, the study explores several innovative strategies: transitioning to solar photovoltaic systems for lighting and water pumping, shifting from diesel to biodiesel for fuel, and optimizing feed compositions. Additionally, advanced manure management practices are proposed to reduce methane and nitrous oxide emissions. Collectively, these interventions could significantly diminish the emissions associated with hen farming operations, thereby advancing environmental sustainability. This work not only provides actionable insights for poultry farms seeking to lower their emissions but also offers a scalable and adaptable model with broader implications for sustainable practices across the agricultural sector. The findings underscore the importance of renewable energy integration, feed optimization, and efficient waste management in mitigating the environmental impact of agriculture, thereby informing both policy and practice in the pursuit of carbon-neutral food production.