Methane emissions account for approximately 16% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with livestock farming being a significant contributor. Methane is over 25 times more potent than CO2 in terms of global warming potential.
In response to the Global Methane Pledge and the UK’s Net Zero by 2050 targets, the government has implemented regulations requiring the inclusion of anti-methanogenic feed additives by 2025.
This project builds on emerging research highlighting the potential of plant-based polyphenols to reduce methane emissions while also improving livestock nutrition.
Polyphenols are naturally occurring compounds found in many plant species, offering environmental benefits and supporting protein utilization in ruminant diets.
Despite their promise, the commercial adoption of polyphenols in animal feed remains limited, warranting further investigation into their extraction, production, and effectiveness.
SDG: #13 (Climate Action), #17 (Partnerships for the Goals)
Sectors: Agriculture and Livestock, Feed Industry, Sustainability and Climate Mitigation, Research and Development
Countries: Wales, United Kingdom
Clients: AberInnovation Solutions Catalyst Programme and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) – Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)
Duration: August 2024 – September 2024
Project Title: Feasibility of commercial extraction of plant phenolics for their use as anti-methanogenic in the feed industry.
Project Partners: AberInnovation, Aberystwyth University, Omeva Consulting
This project sought to evaluate the feasibility of commercially extracting plant-based polyphenols for use as anti-methanogenic additives in livestock feed. The objectives include:
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, with over 25 times the global warming potential of CO2. The UK government has committed to reducing methane emissions by 30% by 2030 as part of the Global Methane Pledge. Livestock farming contributes significantly to these emissions, necessitating sustainable solutions. This project directly supports these targets by offering innovative approaches to reduce methane production, benefiting both the environment and the agricultural industry.
Omeva Consulting played a pivotal role in driving the project from concept to actionable outcomes, ensuring its practical and commercial relevance. We also contributed to the extraction, testing, and analysis of plant phenolics, offering practical expertise in our application within the feed industry.
The project was successfully completed, and its findings have led to the establishment of a new company, Botanega Ltd. Based on the project's report, Botanega has adopted an antimicrobial strategy to commercialize the research outcomes.
More info
For more information on this project, please contact info@omevaconsulting.com or maria@omevaconsulting.com
