Mexico's Agroecological Path to Climate-Smart Livestock

Government officials and industry leaders gathered at the International Forum on Alternatives to Mitigate Climate Change in Bovine Livestock to address critical challenges facing the sector amid global environmental concerns. Víctor Suárez, Deputy Ministry of Food Self-sufficiency, SADER, emphasized the need to identify structural causes of climate change and implement paradigm-shifting alternatives for agriculture and livestock production. He highlighted the potential of agroecological practices in drastically reducing greenhouse gas emissions from livestock, potentially achieving net-zero emissions.

"In embracing agroecology, we aim to maintain balance across all phases of livestock production, particularly supporting small and medium-scale producers," Suárez stated, underscoring Mexico's historical role in agricultural innovation and the shift toward a knowledge-driven model involving producers, research centers, schools, and public entities.

The forum spotlighted initiatives under the Technical Support Strategy (TSS) of the Production for Well-Being Program (PpB), which includes the production of biofertilizers, enriched silage, alternative forage cultivation in agroforestry systems, and silvopastoral systems in tropical regions. These efforts are aimed at enhancing water management and resilience to climate impacts.

Rolando Herrera, Director General of Food Self-sufficiency, SADER, addressed the challenges posed by climate change, such as rising temperatures and droughts affecting forage production and livestock health nationwide. He emphasized the role of PpB and TSS in disseminating national efforts to mitigate climate change impacts within the dairy sector.

Juan Antonio Villanueva, Director General, Colpos, praised the administration's focus on delivering tangible results to Mexico's agri-food sector through innovative, agroecological approaches. Meanwhile, Vicente Gómez, President, Mexican Dairy Federation (Femeleche), highlighted legislative advancements benefiting dairy producers under the current administration, including quality infrastructure modifications and consumer protection measures.