Tracking different methane mitigation strategies using Carbon isotope ratios in ruminants
Methane mitigation, 13C/12C ratio, continuous culture, climate change, enteric fermentation, greenhouse gas emissions, feed strategies
36 months
Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 4
Introduction
This project aims to tackle the contribution of cow burps to climate change. Special microbes in the gut of cows, sheep and goats release methane, a gas that traps heat in the atmosphere and warms the planet. There are many techniques available to eliminate these microbes. Our project aims to develop a method to determine the success of the techniques to decrease methane-producing microbes and develop simple solutions to help farmers reduce the amount of methane their animals produce. This will make animal farming more environmentally friendly and help us create a more sustainable future for the agriculture.
What: Develop a technology to measure the success of methane inhibitors on Farm.
Why: We need to get precise measurements of the methane that animals release. This is important for national inventories, and on farm methane reduction efforts.
Where: We'll be working in Italy, Germany, and New Zealand, but our findings will help any country with similar farming practices, where animals are fed both in barns and on pastures.
Background
Livestock are a major source of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, driving climate change. A great focus in research currently is on the development of methane mitigation methods. Evaluation tools to determine the success of mitigation methods for on-farm use, however, are lacking and there's a pressing need for affordable, accessible technologies that can provide reliable, on-farm measurements. This project will investigate novel techniques to address this challenge, exploring both advanced in vitro systems and simpler 'sniffer' technologies. A key focus is on using isotope analysis to better understand methane production pathways, enabling more targeted mitigation strategies. The goal is to develop solutions that are both scientifically robust and practically applicable for farmers.
Main project activities
Continuous culture experiments gas samples with different isotope ratios
Test effect of diets on isotope ratios.
Determine the effect of methane inhibitors on isotope ratios.
Developing a model to predict methane reduction for inhibitors on different diets.
Engaging with stakeholders to disseminate findings.
Expected social impact
The expected results of this project will benefit farmers and consumers, fostering a more sustainable food system. Farmers will gain practical tools for sustainable practices, unlocking potential market access for climate-friendly products and creating new economic opportunities. Consumers will benefit from a more sustainable food supply and the assurance of environmentally responsible production.
By providing accessible on-farm measurement tools, it empowers farmers to participate in climate solutions and potentially access to carbon markets. The project promotes social inclusion by enabling widespread adoption of sustainable practices, regardless of farm size. Ultimately, it fosters a more responsible and economically viable livestock sector, securing livelihoods and contributing to a healthier planet for future generations.
Implementation and plans to reach target groups
To make an impact, we're building a network of active participants. We'll engage farmers as partners in testing and refining solutions through accessible bulletins on a dynamic project website, social media and farmer association. Industry leaders, particularly feed and technology companies, will be part of the demonstration activities with direct outreach and collaborative workshops fostering innovation. Policymakers will be engaged through data-driven insights. Public awareness will be built through open labs, school visits, and proactive social media campaigns, emphasizing the new analysis and methane mitigation. We'll present findings at key industry events. Communication manager, supported by the team, will ensure consistent communication among partners and stakeholders.
Partners of the project
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University of Milan, Italy
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University of Milan, Italy
AgResearch Ltd, New Zealand
Technical University of Munich, Germany
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Ministry of agriculture, food sovereignty and forests, Italy
Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung, Germany
Ministry for Primary Industries, New Zealand
