Hi, my name is John Mutua. Nice to meet you.
I am a PhD Candidate in the lab of Dr. Gary Watmough at the School of Geosciences, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom. 🇬🇧
My research is aimed at quantifying livestock diets for improved estimation of greenhouse gas emissions from livestock systems in Kenya. Prior to beginning my PhD, I worked as a geospatial analyst at Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, a research and development organisation affiliated with the CGIAR. I hold a master’s degree in Climate Change Adaptation from University of Nairobi and a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from Moi University, Kenya.
Why livestock diet?
Livestock production contributes 14%-17% of global anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, comparable to emissions from all vehicles. Sub-Saharan Africa’s livestock, mainly in smallholder agricultural systems, emit more GHGs than Europe and the US due to low-quality feed. Recent research reveals that cattle in the region emit 1000 kg of CO2 per kg of protein produced, making it a GHG hotspot. To tackle this, my PhD research integrates earth observation and ground data to study livestock feed production and consumption in East Africa. By improving our understanding of livestock diets, we can enhance GHG emission calculations and develop strategies for reducing their environmental impact.
Sincere thanks to
EPSRC and the
Jameel Observatory for funding this research!
