A team of researchers at the University of California, Davis is engaged in a pioneering experiment to tackle methane emissions from cattle farming, a major contributor to climate change. Led by Paulo de Meo Filho and Ermias Kebreab, the project aims to develop a pill that can transform cow gut bacteria to emit less or no methane. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, plays a significant role in global warming, with Kebreab highlighting that nearly half of the temperature increase to date can be attributed to methane. The researchers are focusing on the microbes in cow stomachs that convert hydrogen into methane, exploring ways to genetically modify these microbes to reduce methane production. By introducing modified microbes that consume hydrogen, the team hopes to suppress methane-producing bacteria effectively. However, the researchers proceed cautiously to avoid potential harm to the animals due to hydrogen accumulation. The project also involves testing these modified microorganisms at UC Davis and the UC Berkeley's Innovative Genomics Institute. The ultimate goal is to develop a single-dose treatment to be administered early in a cow's life, thereby increasing feed efficiency and reducing methane emissions. This innovative research, funded with $70 million over seven years, not only aims to combat climate change but also enhance productivity in cattle. Kebreab emphasizes the importance of sustainable livestock practices and the need for solutions that can be implemented globally, considering factors like the nutritional needs of children in developing nations. The project represents a significant step towards addressing the environmental challenges posed by cattle farming.