Hardware Podcasts

Solving the cow burp problem

Catalyst · 26 Jan 2024 · 42m

What this episode covers

Charles Brooke, program manager for enteric methane at Spark Climate Solutions, explains that enteric fermentation from ruminants is a major source of global methane, with over 80% of emissions coming from small-holder pasture-raised animals rather than feedlots. He details current mitigation strategies, including feed additives like DSM’s Bovaer (3-NOP) and bromoform from Asparagopsis seaweed, which offer variable reductions, and emerging solutions such as vaccines from Kio Bio and selective breeding programs. Brooke highlights that while feed additives are effective, their daily administration limits them to intensive systems, whereas vaccines and breeding offer permanent, pasture-compatible reductions. The conversation concludes with the significant regulatory hurdles in the US, where these products face an 8-year approval process as new animal drugs, and the need for coordinated public education to avoid consumer backlash.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Spark Climate Solutions, DSM, Kio Bio, Energy Hub, Bloom Energy
Products
Bovaer, Asparagopsis, 3-NOP, bromoform

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