Lime Nitrogen Additive Reduces Methane Emissions from Manure Storage in Germany
A lime nitrogen-based additive significantly reduces climate-relevant emissions from manure storage, enhances nitrogen efficiency, and increases methane yield in biogas plants, as demonstrated by the EMeRGE project conducted by the Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB) and Alzchem Trostberg GmbH. The additive is already available for agricultural use.
In Germany, about one-fifth of methane emissions from livestock originate from manure storage. The project found that the additive can reduce methane emissions from cattle and pig manure by up to 97% during summer conditions.
It also showed significant reductions during winter, although higher dosages may be needed. The lime nitrogen treatment allows for more nitrogen retention in manure, potentially lowering mineral fertilizer costs by up to 22%.
The temporary inactivation of microorganisms does not hinder biogas production under proper conditions. Future research aims to integrate these findings into climate calculators and greenhouse gas inventories.
