The NZAGRC’s methane research programme targets a reduction in emissions from two main sources in New Zealand agriculture: enteric methane produced by the digestive systems of ruminant animals, and methane emitted from manure management.
Breeding
Our research has identified low-methane-emitting sheep and supported the development of a methane breeding value that has since been incorporated into breeding indices. A similar breeding programme for dairy cattle is now underway.
Low-emitting dairy cattle
We are identifying low-emitting dairy cows and bulls and developing a national methane dairy breeding programme.
Low-emitting sheep
New Zealand breeders can now measure and rank their sheep based on their methane emissions, thanks to our sheep-breeding programme.
Feeds
Our research has shown that some supplementary feeds ferment differently in the rumen and produce less methane per unit of feed consumed.
Alternative forages
We are investigating the effects on ruminant methane emissions of including different proportions of plantain, forage rape and other alternative forages in the diet.
Inhibitors
A methane inhibitor is a chemical compound fed to an animal to reduce the production of methane in the rumen.
Inhibitor delivery
Our research is looking at different ways to deliver small molecule methane inhibitors safely and effectively to New Zealand’s predominantly grazing livestock.
Vaccine
A successful methane vaccine would trigger an animal's immune system to generate antibodies in saliva that suppress the growth of methane-producing microbes (methanogens) in the rumen.
Developing an anti-methanogen vaccine
Research is focused on identifying the right antigens that will inhibit the growth and function of methanogens in the rumen.
Manure
Manure management is a minor source of methane emissions in New Zealand, but technologies used in other countries might benefit farmers here.
Reducing methane from stored wastes
We are assessing available technologies for reducing methane emissions from stored animal waste to see how they might work in New Zealand.
The science of methane
Where does methane come from, and why must it be addressed if New Zealand is to achieve its climate change targets?
Explore publications
Use the filters and search facility in our Publications archive to view peer-reviewed papers, reports, factsheets and other material that relate to our methane research.
