June 14, 2024

Livestock diseases may increase due to climate change

The Irish government has warned of significant impacts on the agriculture sector due to climate change, including a rise in livestock diseases such as bluetongue, Agriland reported.

These findings were detailed in Ireland's second National Adaptation Framework (NAF), published by Minister Eamon Ryan.

The new NAF outlines the potential implications of climate change for Ireland and presents the national strategy for developing adaptation measures. The framework highlights that projected temperature increases may lead to an increase in vector-borne diseases affecting livestock, such as the bluetongue virus, and could impact disease lifecycles and the introduction of new diseases.

The government also noted that more frequent heatwaves may result in heat stress for both animals and farmers. Additionally, projected decreases in summer precipitation and increased drought frequency are expected to cause water stress for livestock. This will necessitate changes to grazing protocols and an increased need for silage and meal supplies.

-      Agriland