Hilda, the cow genetically modified to reduce methane emissions, was born

Hilda is a cow that could represent an ecological breakthrough in the dairy industry. In fact, it is not just any bovine: its genes have been modified to significantly reduce methane emissions during digestive processes, an extremely potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming.

The project, a crucial step for sustainability, is the result of advanced in vitro fertilization techniques. The methane produced by cows is indeed a serious problem for the environment, with an impact 28 times higher than that of carbon dioxide in terms of atmospheric warming.

Whereas cattle are responsible for approx 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, reducing their impact is a priority for scientific research. Thanks to in vitro fertilization, Hilda’s birth was accelerated by eight months compared to the times required by traditional breeding techniques, making the selection of cattle with low environmental impact quicker.

How we got to Hilda

Hilda belongs to the herd Langhilla historic herd located in Dumfries, Scotland, which has been at the center of studies on greenhouse gas emissions and cattle production efficiency for over 50 years. The Cool Cows project, which led to its birth, aims to develop a new generation of cattle through advanced genetic selection. Hilda’s mother’s eggs were taken and fertilized with the sperm of selected bulls specifically for their genetic characteristics, creating embryos in the laboratory which are then implanted.

According to Richard Dewhurst, a researcher at Scotland’s Rural College, the project not only offers a solution to reduce methane emissions, but could also revolutionize the entire dairy industrymaking it more sustainable. The genomic evaluation combined with new indices of productive and ecological efficiency will in fact make it possible to select elite cattle for reproduction.

Rob Simmons of Paragon Veterinary Group highlighted the importance of continuing to genetically improve methane efficiency in cattle to reduce the impact of emissions on the planet, without compromising the ability to meet global demand for dairy products.

Hilda is therefore a possible response to the global challenges linked to food and environmental sustainability. This approach could lead to a significant reduction in the environmental impact of dairy production, contributing to a greener future. However, remember that the simplest solution to this problem is only one: reduce intensive farming.