How Mitsubishi Cuts Methane in Agriculture Supply Chains

Japanese vehicle manufacturing giant Mitsubishi is shifting its focus from motoring to methane reduction in a strategic collaboration with Australian company CH4 Global.
The partnership centres on expanding the production and commercial use of CH4’s Methane Tamer, a feed supplement designed to reduce methane emissions from cattle.
Methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases, with a heat-trapping capacity more than 80 times that of carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. Agriculture, particularly livestock farming, is the single largest source of methane emissions, making this a pressing issue for the global food supply chain.
With growing demand for meat, reducing methane in cattle farming is a significant challenge. While plant-based diets are gaining traction in some regions, overall meat production continues to rise, meaning methane output does too.
Governments worldwide are seeking solutions, with the United Nations’ Environmental Programme (UNEP) stating: “Cutting methane is the strongest lever we have to slow climate change over the next 25 years and complements necessary efforts to reduce carbon dioxide.”
Methane Tamer: A feed supplement to reduce emissions
CH4 Global’s Methane Tamer is a powdered cattle feed supplement made from Asparagopsis seaweed, a natural ingredient shown to cut enteric methane emissions by up to 90%. The product is designed for easy use, mixing well with standard cattle feed.
“It’s a very easy product to use that is dust free, easy to handle, mixes well with feed and cattle like it,” explains Heath Tiller, Principal Operator at HB Rural, a farming company specialising in lamb and beef.
CH4 Global has conducted trials with strong results, but scaling up production is the next challenge. This is where Mitsubishi’s expertise comes in.
The Japanese corporation will support CH4 Global in navigating regulatory approvals in Japan, assist in optimising feed formulations in Australia and conduct feasibility studies for large-scale production in South East Asia.
The partnership aligns with CH4 Global’s broader mission to cut gigaton-scale emissions by 2035.
Expanding supply chains in Asia-Pacific
The collaboration will initially target Australia and Japan.
In Australia, efforts will focus on increasing sales of Methane Tamer and refining its formulation for different farming systems. Meanwhile, in Japan, Mitsubishi and CH4 Global are looking to introduce the product to a market of around four million cattle, including breeding stock and calves.
Japan presents a significant opportunity for methane reduction in livestock farming.
However, launching Methane Tamer in the country requires regulatory approval, a process that both companies are actively working on. While no specific timeline has been disclosed, the immediate focus will be on feasibility studies and adjustments to the product to meet local industry requirements.
Another critical element of the partnership is ensuring a sustainable and scalable supply of Asparagopsis seaweed, the key ingredient in Methane Tamer. Mitsubishi’s extensive experience in aquaculture and agriculture will be instrumental in identifying potential production sites across South East Asia.
CH4 Global’s approach to cultivation is part of its EcoPark system, which integrates environmental sustainability with economic viability. The company aims to create a supply chain that does not rely on subsidies, ensuring long-term commercial success.
Mitsubishi’s role in transforming agriculture supply chains
Mitsubishi’s involvement in this initiative reflects a broader trend of large corporations investing in climate-focused solutions within their supply chains. As a major player in global trade and agriculture, Mitsubishi’s expertise in logistics, production and regulatory processes will be key to scaling Methane Tamer.
Governments in countries such as Japan and Australia are under pressure to meet climate targets and methane reduction solutions offer a viable way to achieve these goals while maintaining agricultural productivity.
“Mitsubishi’s deep experience in agricultural products and services and strong presence across Asian markets makes them an ideal partner as we work to expand the reach of our innovative methane reduction solution,” adds Steve Meller, CEO at CH4 Global.
Though the current focus is on the Asia-Pacific region, the potential for wider global adoption is significant.
Livestock farming is a major contributor to agricultural greenhouse gas emissions and scalable solutions like Methane Tamer could play a crucial role in reducing its climate impact.
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