Bill Gates is investing in an Australian startup focusing on reducing methane emissions from cows through a lab-grown feed additive, with the company planning to use the funds for commercial trials and setting up manufacturing, even as experts question the practicality of methane-focused scientific pursuits.
Gates-led Breakthrough Energy Ventures LLC (BEV) was part of a $12 million phase-2 seed funding for Perth-based Rumin8, which is developing a livestock supplement made from synthetically replicated bromoform, which is the active ingredient found in red seaweed. The supplement is said to result in less gas and indigestion among cows, thereby lowering methane emissions.
“Our laboratory results continue to yield excellent results, our animal trials are reflecting the laboratory results, and the financial modeling we are undertaking is indicating we will be able to supply our products at a commercial price point,” said Rumin8 managing director David Messina, according to Smart Company….