Methane-buster wins AgTech Startup of the Year

CH4 Global has been awarded ‘AgTech Startup of the Year’ in the fifth annual AgTech Breakthrough Awards program conducted by AgTech Breakthrough, an international market intelligence organisation that recognises the top companies, technologies and products in the global agricultural and food technology markets.

The company is known for developing ‘Methane Tamer’, a feed additive derived from Asparagopsis, the red seaweed native to southern Australian and New Zealand waters. When cattle eat Methane Tamer as just 0.5% of their daily diet, the seaweed disrupts an enzymatic process in their digestive system. It has been shown to reduce methane emissions from cattle by up to 90%, according to CH4 Global.

Developed through a proprietary cultivation and processing method, the solution is scientifically validated and safe, the company said.

Methane Tamer Beef Feedlot is the company’s targeted formulation designed specifically for beef cattle in feedlot operations. It delivers a standardised 75% reduction in feedlot enteric emissions throughout its shelf life. Additional formulations are now in the pipeline, including Dairy Feedlot, Grazing Dairy, Grazing Beef, Sheep and Goats.

In January, CH4 Global opened a pond-based, commercial-scale EcoPark at Louth Bay, South Australia, to grow Asparagopsis at scale. The company said this facility’s production model slashes operational costs by up to 90% versus conventional seaweed farming. CH4 Global has also forged strategic partnerships with major organisations to help fast-track adoption across diverse supply chains and markets.

“By targeting methane emissions, our solution plays a vital role in helping the world meet its climate commitments,” said CH4 Global’s CEO, Dr Steve Meller.

“We understand what is required to create a viable solution that is carefully balanced to work for all parties — from food producers and farmers to consumers and governments, while also ensuring quality and efficacy are front and centre.

“We’re grateful to AgTech Breakthrough for this award as we continue to innovate in the name of sustainable agriculture. Our work paves the way to move from intention to action to meaningful impact, addressing global methane with proven and available solutions.”

Image credit: iStock.com/BerndBrueggemann