MeTech Holdings, a startup specializing in livestock methane gas research, has introduced an innovative livestock methane gas measurement system. Launched on October 16, the new solution is capsule-based and designed to help track methane emissions from cattle in real time. MeTech plans to apply this technology to a large-scale standardization project for K-Cow (Hanwoo) low-carbon certification, starting with Ihyeon Farm in Haenam, Jeollanam-do, South Korea.
Pioneering Low-Carbon Farming at Ihyeon Farm
Ihyeon Farm, located in the Haenam region, is renowned for being a representative low-carbon farm in Korea. The farm has already received low-carbon certification from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs, recognizing its advanced techniques for sustainable livestock farming. Known for its eco-friendly practices, Ihyeon Farm produces high-quality Korean beef, meeting rigorous standards for organic livestock, animal welfare, and food safety (HACCP). The farm’s reputation as a leader in low-carbon farming makes it an ideal partner for MeTech’s methane measurement initiative.
According to MeTech, the methane measurement system, deployed through capsules administered to livestock, has demonstrated promising results. The company indicated that Ihyeon Farm’s cattle emit significantly less methane compared to conventional farms. By using this innovative technology, the farm has reduced methane emissions by nearly half. This breakthrough, they believe, could set new standards for environmentally conscious cattle farming, not only in South Korea but globally.
Real-Time Data and Enhanced Farm Management
Ihyeon Farm’s owner emphasized the practical benefits of MeTech’s methane capsules, highlighting how the technology allows farmers to monitor methane emissions in real time. This capability provides valuable data that helps farmers better manage their livestock while actively contributing to environmental conservation. The system offers farmers direct insight into their farm’s impact on the environment and allows them to adjust their practices accordingly. The capsules thus play a dual role: supporting sustainable livestock management and offering transparency regarding the farm’s environmental footprint.
Blockchain-Powered Low-Carbon Certification for K-Cow
The K-Cow (Hanwoo) low-carbon certification project is set to gain significant momentum with the use of MeTech’s methane capsules. To ensure credibility and consumer trust, the certification process will be supported by blockchain technology. MeTech has partnered with Hessegg, a technology company, to utilize its self-developed blockchain platform “NiktoNet” for the certification process. This blockchain solution, built on COSMOS Layer 1 main net, will provide a secure and transparent record of methane emissions data, enabling consumers to make informed choices based on verifiable environmental standards.
International Expansion and Strategic Partnerships
MeTech is rapidly expanding its reach beyond South Korea. Within just two years of its establishment, the company has signed supply contracts for its methane measurement capsules with major international organizations. These partnerships include the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Arkea Bio, Tendência Agronegócios in Brazil (which works closely with Embrapa, the Brazilian Agricultural Cooperation Agency), Rumin8 in Australia, the Royal Agrifirm Group in the Netherlands, and Agrimin in the UK. These agreements underline MeTech’s commitment to advancing low-carbon livestock farming practices on a global scale.
Ambitious Goals for Methane Management
MeTech’s CEO highlighted the significance of methane emissions in the livestock industry, pointing out that approximately 80% of greenhouse gases generated by domestic cattle farming are methane gases emitted from cattle intestines. The company’s methane capsule technology is currently the only system capable of accurately measuring and managing methane emissions. Starting with Ihyeon Farm, MeTech aims to certify 1,000 low-carbon Hanwoo cattle by the end of the year, setting a new benchmark for sustainable cattle farming in South Korea.
Through its cutting-edge methane measurement system and growing international partnerships, MeTech is at the forefront of the fight against greenhouse gas emissions in the livestock industry. The company’s work could not only transform farming practices in South Korea but also inspire broader changes in global agriculture as the world seeks innovative solutions to mitigate climate change.