Briefing: Cow manure digesters really do cut methane—unless they leak

Dairy digesters are engineered to mitigate methane emissions from cow manure, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

The study, published on March 31, 2026, demonstrates that these systems can effectively capture methane when functioning properly.

However, the research also highlights that substantial leaks can occur, which may negate the environmental advantages these digesters provide.