Cafe Sci: The Case for Methane Capture

This talk will explore the innovative Net Zero Methane Hub initiative in Cornwall, focusing on utilising methane emissions from the region’s dairy farms to produce sustainable energy. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is a major contributor to climate change, and dairy farming is one of the largest sources of methane emissions globally. By capturing methane from manure and other waste products, Cornwall’s farms can transform this harmful gas into renewable energy, reducing emissions while providing a new energy source for local communities.

In the UK, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases are the largest contributors to global warming after CO2. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential 86 times that of CO2 over a 20 year period. The importance of reducing methane emissions to mitigate climate change was recognised at COP26 where the Global Methane Pledge was launched.

With the government’s commitment to achieving net zero by 2050, initiatives like the Cornwall Methane Hub are critical. They showcase how local action, particularly in dairy-heavy regions like Cornwall, can contribute to national and global methane reduction efforts, turning environmental challenges into opportunities for renewable energy development.

Bio For IFEAA / NZ Methane Hub:

The Net Zero Methane Hub is an SPF-funded project coordinated by IFEAA. IFEAA’s expertise extends to a variety of sectors, including Advanced Propulsion Systems, Cryogenics, Medical devices, electro-magnetics, cyber risk analysis  Farming, Politics, our work includes working with local organisations such as South West Water, Climate-I and Bennamann.  

Methane Hub Aims:

• Initiate a supply chain of net zero methane producers and users sharing the latest research and showcasing methane capture technology.

• Identify innovation and research needs for methane capture and use technology, growing new research and development collaborations.

• Grow finance opportunities for methane capture and use technology, linking with the finance community to encourage investment.

• Support skills development by highlighting higher and further education needs. Visit local schools and engage with communities to grow understanding of the approach.

• Share Hub outcomes with local and national policymakers to support evidence-based policy, host a Net Zero Methane Hub Conference in Cornwall.

This project is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Cornwall Council has been chosen by Government as a Lead Authority for the fund and is responsible for monitoring the progress of projects funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund 

Tickets bought via The Poly are for the in person talk at The Poly on Thursday 10th October

This talk will also be live streamed, to buy a ticket to the online zoom talk click here.

Thurs 10th October 2024 6pm

Price: £2.50

A £1 Poly Fund payment is added to each ticket sold.