On November 26, 2024, researchers at the University of California, Davis, are conducting a study focused on reducing methane emissions from cattle, a significant contributor to global warming. The project involves a two-month-old calf named 'Thing 1,' from which scientists are extracting liquid samples to study the microbes responsible for methane production in the animal's stomach.
Postdoctoral researcher Paulo de Mello Filho is developing a drug aimed at altering the gut bacteria of cows to decrease methane output. Methane is recognized as the second-largest contributor to climate change after carbon dioxide, with the former being much more potent despite its shorter atmospheric lifespan.
Professor Ermias Kebreab emphasized that approximately half of the increase in global temperatures can be attributed to methane emissions. He noted that if methane reduction efforts are initiated now, the effects on temperature could be observed relatively quickly.
The research team is providing the calf and other calves with a diet supplemented with seaweed, which has been shown to lower methane production. The goal is to achieve similar effects through genetically modified microbes that would inhibit methane-producing bacteria in the digestive system.
However, the team is proceeding with caution, as Professor Matthias Hess warned against completely eliminating methane-producing bacteria, which could lead to harmful hydrogen accumulation in the cows. The project, in collaboration with the Innovative Genomics Institute at UC Berkeley, aims to identify the right microbes for genetic modification.
The ultimate objective is to create a drug that can be administered early in the life of cattle, as daily supplementation is impractical for free-range animals. The research teams have seven years and $70 million allocated for this project.
Kebreab has long advocated for sustainable cattle farming practices and argues against reducing meat consumption in developing countries, where malnutrition remains a critical issue.