Work starts on £8m livestock emissions research centre

Northern Ireland is set to strengthen research into cutting livestock emissions with work beginning on a new £8m ruminant emissions research facility at the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), Hillsborough.

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs minister Andrew Muir has welcomed the award of the construction contract for the project, which is funded by the department, with work set to start imminently.

Construction is expected to last 13 months with the building to be handed over in August 2027.

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The facility will enable scientists to measure greenhouse gas and ammonia emissions from cattle under controlled conditions, providing data to improve emissions inventories and develop practical mitigation measures for livestock systems.

Mr Muir said: “This facility will support scientists develop innovative, low-carbon farming practices with reduced ammonia emissions strengthening environmental outcomes whilst sustaining the productivity and economic resilience of our agri-food sector.”

AFBI said the research infrastructure would strengthen its ability to investigate ways of reducing the environmental impact of ruminant production while supporting the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Bridging a gap

Prof Elizabeth Magowan, director of AFBI Sustainable Agri-Food Sciences, described the facility as an important addition to the institute’s research capability.

“It will provide a unique, specialist platform that bridges the gap between detailed laboratory studies and commercial farm systems, enabling us to deliver world-class leading science that supports innovation and sustainability across the agri-food sector.”

The facility forms part of Northern Ireland’s wider efforts to reduce agricultural emissions while supporting a competitive and resilient livestock sector.