Breakthrough in Methane Reduction: Ambient Carbon's Technology Shows 90% Effectiveness in Dairy Barns

Dramatic Reduction in Dairy Barn Methane Emissions: A Game Changer for Agriculture

A groundbreaking field trial conducted in Denmark has unveiled remarkable results from Ambient Carbon's Methane Eradication Photochemical System (MEPS). This innovative technology has managed to eliminate up to 90% of dilute methane emissions from the air in dairy barns, showcasing both the scalability and effectiveness of solutions aimed at reducing livestock-related greenhouse gases.

The trial took place in a 250-cow dairy barn located at the Hofmansgave Foundation. Here, a MEPS unit, housed in a 40-foot shipping container, was tested. This marks a significant evolution from previous experiments that utilized smaller prototypes in controlled laboratory environments.

Matthew S. Johnson, co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Ambient Carbon, remarked, "The system successfully oxidized methane across a range of concentration levels, demonstrating that MEPS operates effectively under actual farming conditions where co-pollutants are present. We observed removal efficiencies of up to 90% at inlet air methane concentrations varying from 4.3 ppm to 44 ppm."

MEPS stands out as the only commercially viable technology capable of eradicating methane at concentrations below 1000 ppm. Its non-invasive nature ensures that the cows remain undisturbed, thereby maintaining normal milk production and barn operations. Additionally, the system does more than just tackle methane; it effectively removes ammonia and other unpleasant odors while producing sterile water vapor and fertilizer, potentially reducing operational expenses for farmers.

The modular design of MEPS makes it adaptable to barns of various sizes, as well as suitable for use in manure storage facilities, biogas plants, and wastewater treatment facilities. The ongoing success of this trial is bolstered by substantial support from industry leaders, including Danone North America and Benton Group Dairies, which is a key supplier to Danone North America. Important collaborations also include the Hofmansgave Foundation and research institutions such as the University of Copenhagen and Aarhus University.

Jessie Copeland, Head of Regenerative Agriculture at Danone North America, expressed optimism regarding the initial results: "The need for technologies like MEPS in regenerative agriculture is immense. The achievements noted in Denmark lay a solid foundation for future collaborations between Danone North America and Ambient Carbon, aligning with our shared commitment to boost farmer and supply chain resilience in a sustainable agricultural framework."

Chris Williams, Conservation Lead at Benton Dairies, also emphasized the importance of the technology: "Our company is deeply focused on enhancing our environmental impact while aiming to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. MEPS presents a non-invasive pathway for achieving a more sustainable approach to milk production and we’re thrilled to collaborate with Ambient Carbon."

Dave Kenney, the CEO of Ambient Carbon, also highlighted the significance of the field trial's success: "This demonstration confirms that our approach is on target and that we can meet performance metrics crucial for broad acceptance across the agricultural sector. The support from our collaborators has been fundamental in achieving this critical milestone."

As the agricultural community continues to face pressing environmental challenges, innovations such as Ambient Carbon's Methane Eradication Photochemical System will play a key role in fostering sustainable farming methods. This trial not only represents a promising development in methane reduction, but it also serves as an encouraging signal for the future of agricultural practices in alignment with environmental stewardship.