The joint project, led by the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao and Yangzhou University, will investigate whether microemulsification can help disperse bromoform – a natural seaweed compound known to inhibit methane production – more evenly in the rumen.

Bioeconomy Science Institute scientist and project lead Dr Xuezhao Sun says improving how bromoform is dispersed could make it more effective in the rumen, where methane-producing microbes, known as methanogens, are active.

“While bromoform is known to inhibit methane production, current delivery methods can struggle to distribute the compound evenly inside the rumen, limiting its effectiveness.

“We’re hoping microemulsification, which allows normally unmixable liquids such as oil and water to blend into a stable mixture, will overcome that challenge and unlock the full benefits of bromoform.”

Dr Sun says the long-term goal is to develop a field-ready product that is safe, easy to use, and capable of reducing livestock methane emissions.

The first phase of the project will focus on developing a stable formulation, followed by laboratory trials at the Bioeconomy Science Institute. Promising formulations will be tested in China before moving to farm-based trials. The animal trials will also assess animal health and food safety.

The project is one of four environmental technology initiatives awarded a $300,000 grant through the New Zealand–China Strategic Research Alliance (SRA). The alliance is a bilateral initiative between New Zealand’s Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) and the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology.

The Bioeconomy Science Institute’s research is funded by MBIE, while Yangzhou University’s research is supported by the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology.