Jeonbuk University professor develops model to advance global carbon trading

Professor Lee Hak-kyo of the Department of Animal Biotechnology at Jeonbuk National University / Courtesy of Jeonbuk National University

A research team at Jeonbuk National University has developed a model capable of estimating the carbon emissions of some 1.3 billion cattle across 204 countries, drawing considerable attention in the academic community.

According to the university, Lee Hak-kyo, a professor in the Department of Animal Biotechnology, and his team developed the so-called “K-model,” which can calculate emissions using only basic data such as a cow’s weight and age at culling.

This breakthrough is poised to become a new benchmark for international low-carbon livestock certification and paves the way for the agriculture and food sector to enter the 1,260 trillion won ($903 billion) global emissions trading system (ETS).

The agricultural sector has long been sidelined from ETS because of challenges in measuring emissions. This breakthrough, however, is viewed as a potential game-changer, opening the door for farmers to begin emissions trading and play a greater role in cutting greenhouse gases.

Based on the methodology of the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and six decades of data from the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization, the study provides scientific evidence linking livestock productivity to carbon emissions.

Global beef carbon footprint model and low-carbon certification system / Courtesy of Jeonbuk National University

A key strength of the model is its accessibility. By using basic data instead of expensive equipment, it can be adopted widely, including in developing countries.

With the beef industry accounting for about eight percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, the model is expected to have a far-reaching impact. If adopted by many countries, it can not only drive emission cuts but also help level the playing field in climate action between developed and developing nations.

“This study is significant as it marks Korea’s development of a technology that can support global carbon neutrality,” Lee said. “We will promote the model through international research networks to help cut livestock-related emissions worldwide.”