Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is primarily generated in environments with low oxygen levels, known as anaerobic conditions. This process is facilitated by a group of microorganisms called methanogens.
In addition to geological natural gas reservoirs, a variety of environments contribute to methane production. These include wetlands, rice paddies, and landfills, as well as through the digestive processes of animals, specifically enteric fermentation in ruminants. Anaerobic digesters also produce methane, serving dual purposes in waste and water treatment, as well as biogas production.
Interestingly, all these processes of methanogenesis, with the exception of methane emissions from wetlands, have been harnessed from nature. They are now integral to several human activities, including agriculture, waste management, and biofuel production. This demonstrates how we can adopt and adapt natural processes for sustainable practices.
