CSIRO develops wool test to verify methane emissions from sheep for fashion sustainability

CSIRO researchers have found a way to measure methane emissions from sheep using wool samples. The method analyzes carbon isotope signatures preserved in wool to reveal how much methane the animal produced, offering a low-cost alternative to expensive on-farm measurement tools. This could help fashion brands like M.J. Bale verify the carbon footprint of their wool products, where methane often accounts for over half of total emissions. The discovery came from a collaboration between CSIRO and sustainable fashion brand M.J. Bale, which needed a tool to prove its sustainability credentials. Current methane measurement methods require specialized equipment and internet connectivity that is often unavailable in regional areas. The new isotope method works from a simple wool sample and does not need any technology at the time the belches occur. CSIRO is now seeking industry partners for larger trials to bring the method to market.