Scientists from Australia have found a way to reduce methane emissions from cows by 30%

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), farm animals, primarily cows, are responsible for about 40% of global methane emissions. Given that methane contributes to global warming 25 times more than carbon dioxide, reducing its emissions is an important task.

During the experiments, scientists tested various additives to cattle feed, including fish oil, seaweed, and tropical leaves. However, the clay mineral halloysite showed the best results. In a pilot study, it was found that adding a modified form of clay to feed reduced methane emissions within 24 hours.

Clay limits the activity of intestinal microbes and parasites responsible for methane production. Scientists note that halloysite is safe for livestock, since farm animals regularly consume soil while grazing. Moreover, this mineral can even improve the health of animals by reducing intestinal acidity. Halloysite is excreted in feces, making it a potentially safe addition to the diet.

Research is ongoing, and it is hoped that in the future, modified halloysite will be available as inexpensive pellets or sprays.