Mootral

Mootral is the name given to a programme to reduce methane emissions from ruminant animals, chiefly cows and sheep, but also goats. Methane is a major target greenhouse gas (GHG) and in the 4th protocol report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is recommended to increase from a x23 to x72 multiplier because of the magnitude of its effect relative to carbon dioxide and short longevity in the atmosphere.

Feed additive

The Mootral feed additive is derived from proprietary extraction techniques created by Neem Biotech applied to an active extract of garlic, called Allicin. Research at the University of Aberystwyth, Wales (amongst many others) has demonstrated up to 94% reductions in methane production.

Emission trading

Mootral is the brand for the project, designed to certify approved methane reduction programmes in which corporates may participate and prove the provenance of their involvement. Proceeds of emission trading credits are part donated to farmers, who will receive the Allicin without charge for adding to their cattle feed. Further surpluses return to programme participants and charities allied to GHG reduction research.

Publicity

Mootral has attracted much recent attention as runner-up in the FT Global Climate Challenge and Dutch Postcode Lottery. Mootral is a finalist in the Shell/BBC/Newsweek World Challenge 2009 as one of the 12 most promising solutions to climate change.

Sources

• http://www.incropsproject.co.uk/documents/Events/Launch2009/David%20Wiliams%20Neem%20Biotech.pdf
• http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6T42-4R0CPXT-1&_user=10&_rdoc=1&_fmt=&_orig=search&_sort=d&_docanchor=&view=c&_searchStrId=1042417452&_rerunOrigin=scholar.google&_acct=C000050221&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=10&md5=f55e76242feff711f03a654cd4cf5c7d
• Neem Biotech Ltd, data on file
• http://www.theworldchallenge.co.uk/2009-finalists-project02.php
• Animal Feed Science and Technology, Volume 147, Issues 1-3, 14 November 2008, Pages 36-52
• Animal Feed Science and Technology, Volume 145, Issues 1-4, 14 August 2008, Pages 351-363
• J. Dairy Sci. 89:761-771, 2006