California’s dairy sector has reached a major climate achievement—reducing methane emissions by 5 million metric tons of CO₂-equivalent (MMTCO₂e) annually. This progress brings the state more than two-thirds of the way toward its legislated goal of cutting livestock methane emissions by 40% below 2013 levels by 2030.
This milestone is the result of years of investment in planet-smart farming practices, supported by strong public-private partnerships. California remains the only region globally with a legally mandated livestock methane reduction target, set under Senate Bill 1383.
Dairy farms across the state have implemented a range of strategies to cut emissions:
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Methane Capture: Currently, 168 dairy digesters are in operation, with around 75 more in development. These systems collect methane from manure and convert it into renewable natural gas, electricity, or hydrogen fuel. These projects are responsible for about 2.53 MMTCO₂e in annual reductions.
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Methane Avoidance: Over 128 farms are using alternative manure management systems—such as composting, manure separation, and vacuum systems—that prevent methane from forming. These efforts have reduced emissions by approximately 254,000 metric tons annually.
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Milk Efficiency and Herd Reduction: California dairy farms are producing more milk with fewer cows thanks to improved nutrition, genetics, and animal care. While milk output has remained steady, a smaller herd size has cut emissions by an estimated 2.13 MMTCO₂e annually.
These efforts are largely supported through the Dairy Digester Research and Development Program (DDRDP) and the Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP), administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Since 2015, $356 million in grants has been awarded to help fund these initiatives, which are also generating private investment and economic growth in rural areas.
The DDRDP has proven especially effective, delivering 20% of the total greenhouse gas reductions from all California climate programs with just 1.5% of the state’s total climate funding.
In addition to climate gains, these projects are helping improve air quality, protect groundwater, and generate renewable energy. Digesters alone are producing enough clean energy to power more than 17,000 vehicles each day, and more than 175 dairy farms across the state operate solar power systems.
California’s dairy farmers are demonstrating that climate action and strong agricultural production can go hand in hand. With continued support, the sector is well-positioned to meet its full methane reduction goal by 2030.
