Reducing Methane Emissions with Giant Domes

Zeecol’s vision for dairy farm methane management. (Image courtesy of Zeecol.)

The state of California recently implemented a new methane regulation law that will require steep emission reductions from the dairy industry. In response, aerospace engineer William Mook developed a zero-waste system that he claims will allow dairy farmers to comply with the new regulation.

His solution? Giant cow domes.

Giant Cow Domes

Mook is the founder of New Zealand-based waste management company Zeecol, which aims to apply his biotechnology insights to harvest waste from New Zealand dairy farms. Zeecol’s proposed dome system provides an additional stage to the company’s existing waste management system, resulting in zero waste, according to the company.

The transparent, pneumatic dome is approximately three acres in size, much larger than a typical cow shed. The system will allow on-site control of gas and water, temperature and radiation, as well as management of discharges to the water supply.

The system works by recycling cow manure to produce useable farming products. The first step is to use a biodigester to convert nitrate-rich cow effluent into power. Additional gas, enzyme and algae processes output fuel, fertiliser and high protein feed for use on the farm, along with heat and power.

Zeecol’s zero waste process recycles cow effluent to produce feed, fertilizer, fuel, water and power. (Image courtesy of Zeecol.)

The area provided by the dome can also allow more space for the cows, and giving them free range inside the enclosure is a tactic for improving herd health. "We are creating an environmentally-friendly solution for the dairy industry that gives cows the benefit of living freely, while retaining the benefits of shelter," said Mook.

Next Stop: Mars

Don’t worry, cows won’t get to have all the fun. Mook is planning to adapt the technology for use as potential Mars habitats. With SpaceX’s recently announced Mars Vehicle, the reality of humans settling on the red planet is looming ever closer. But the pioneers will need somewhere to live.

"By the time they're ready to send people to Mars, we'll be ready to pre-package [the adapted dome system]. We're the only company in the world that will be ready to build things they need with experience in that area."

For more environmental engineering, check out A Better Way to Clean Up Abandoned Oil & Gas Wells.