The climate crisis is no longer an abstract threat for the future, because it has become the reality of the present. Incredible heat waves and droughts have gripped the planet, and the past 13 months have been the hottest on record.
Researchers have been looking for years for ways to shift away from fossil fuels in favor of greener energy sources such as solar power plants . Another important factor in global warming is agriculture, which emits a significant amount of carbon dioxide into the Earth's atmosphere.
How they plan to reduce emissions from agriculture
Scientists are now exploring a new approach to reducing emissions from agriculture and electricity production. As part of this project, more than 6,000 sheep are planned to graze on 8 solar power plants in Texas.
These animals, who will act as “hairy gardeners”, will be able to find shelter under solar panels and eat vegetation on the territory of more than 4,000 hectares.
The project, according to scientists, will be the largest solar grazing agreement in the United States. On hot days, sheep will be able to rest in the shade of the panels, and power plant owners will save on herbicides and fossil fuel lawnmowers. Sheep manure will fertilize the soil, and the animals themselves will carry wildflower seeds on their fur.
What are the expectations from the project
It is expected that such grazing will improve the health of the local soil. A similar experiment has already been conducted in Minnesota, where an increase in organic matter of more than 200% was recorded in some areas.
The authors of the project emphasize that it demonstrates how solar energy and agriculture can coexist, ensuring the efficiency of solar installations and supporting local ecosystems.
Researchers note that while the field is still in its infancy, solar grazing could prove beneficial for both solar energy providers and farmers.
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