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This review examines the carbon footprint (CF) of extensive grazing systems for sheep and goats, using the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. It also explores best practices for reducing the CF and increasing carbon (C) sequestration. It is mainly focused on sheep. Studies employing LCA have shown that the CF of small ruminants varies significantly based on factors such as breed, feed composition, management practices, and type of grazing system. Thus proper grazing management promotes the fertility and biodiversity of pastures and soil health and also prevents forest fires. This management, in turn, reduces the need for supplementary feeding and increases C sequestration in the system. Therefore it is essential to explore the best practices for managing extensive sheep and goat farms to achieve a negative CF, emphasizing strategies that enhance the efficiency of grazing systems. Some of the best practices for this goal are reviewed in this chapter.
