New Methane Research Facility Launched in Waikato

At the inauguration of Livestock Improvement Corporation's (LIC) cutting-edge Methane Barn in Waikato, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay emphasized its role in large-scale monitoring and measurement of methane emissions from lactating cows. He stated, "The research will enable farmers to sel ect lower-emitting genetics and will be a valuable tool to help reduce biogenic methane without harming productivity." This initiative is part of a broader strategy to offer farmers different options for emission reduction and is aligned with the Government's commitment to meet climate obligations without compromising local agricultural productivity.

With an investment exceeding $400 million fr om the Government and industry, there is a concerted effort to accelerate the development of methane mitigation tools, with the aim of having 11 options commercially available by 2030. Minister McClay stressed, "We are committed to meeting our climate obligations without closing down farms and sending jobs and production overseas."