Gut Feeling: Methane busting ‘cattle capsule’ could be a climate game-changer

A new $4.1 million research project will trial biodegradable devices to reduce methane emissions in cattle and sheep, offering a sustainable, residue-free solution to one of Australian agriculture’s biggest emissions challenges.

Biodegradable Solutions for Low-Emissions Livestock is the latest research project launched by Zero Net Emissions Agriculture Cooperative Research Centre (ZNE-Ag CRC) and will be delivered under the CRC’s Research Program 2: Towards Methane Free Cattle and Sheep.

Research Program 2 Lead, Professor Phil Vercoe said the integration of advanced engineering with animal science is developing high-potential technologies that are not only effective but also environmentally friendly and economically viable.

“This research will explore whether we can put methane-reducing additives into a ‘pill-like’ capsule to reduce methane at the source – in the stomach of the animal.

‘It is smart science with early prototypes showing the potential to reduce methane by up to 60% in cows. The goal now is to find the balance of biodegradability to get a slow release, longer acting methane knock back,” Professor Vercoe said.

Project Lead, Professor Bronwyn Laycock explained that the research involves orally inserting non-toxic (edible), biodegradable devices into the cow’s rumen.

“The rumen is the fermentation chamber of the stomach where methane is produced. The capsule then slowly releases additives that interrupt the methane-forming processes.

“Over time, the capsule degrades naturally, avoiding the need for removal and without causing any harm to the animal. All materials used are biocompatible and non-toxic, leaving no residues in meat or milk, making the technology safe for both animals and end consumers.

“New formulations will undergo in vitro testing, animal trials, and field validations across both feedlot and pasture systems to ensure real-world effectiveness. While the initial focus is on beef and dairy, the technology is being adapted for smaller ruminant animals, like sheep.” Professor Laycock said.

Professor Vercoe said the project is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and brings together an exceptional team from The University of Queensland, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Meat and Livestock Australia.

“By engaging experts from various fields from right across Australia, we’re able to tackle one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.” Professor Vercoe said.

The project will run for six years. Two PhD students will be embedded in the project team and will be trained in cutting edge techniques in polymer engineering, animal science and advanced analytical techniques relevant to methane reduction.

ZNE-Ag CRC is funded by the Australian Government through the Cooperate Research Centres (CRC) Program and the contribution of Partners.