Animal Transportation Database for Beef Cattle
Currently, there are inaccuracies in the energy use and greenhouse gas emission estimates of cattle transport reported by LCA studies because of their simplistic assumptions. The purpose of this database is to provide the necessary data for accurate estimation of the energy use and greenhouse gas emissions associated with cattle transport. The database has 28 different trailers under three categories namely pot belly, gooseneck, and bumper pull. It describes space available (length and width), maximum weight allowed in the trailer, along with a compatible vehicle that can haul the trailer. Gross vehicle weight, maximum payload allowed, and fuel use are available for the compatible vehicle. Using this database one can directly identify the number of cattle of a particular weight category that can be transported in a particular trailer-vehicle combination. This database also helps to identify economical and eco-friendly ways to transport cattle.