Exploring manure’s potential as bioenergy source at Ohio event

By Andi Anderson

The Environmental Professionals Network (EPN) will launch its 2025 breakfast program series on January 14 with a focus on leveraging the bioenergy potential of manure.

Titled “Moo-ving Methane: Converting Ohio’s dairy farm manure into an energy source,” the event will discuss innovative solutions to reduce methane emissions from dairy farming while promoting renewable energy.

Organized by The Ohio State University’s School of Environment and Natural Resources and the Sustainability Institute, the program aims to showcase climate-smart agricultural practices.

The event highlights how methane-capturing technologies implemented by IGS Energy on Ohio dairy farms are transforming environmental challenges into energy opportunities.

“This breakfast panel brings together farmers, researchers, and energy providers to demonstrate the value of collaboration in addressing climate challenges,” said Harrison Fried, EPN program director. “These partnerships are critical to finding win-win solutions that benefit both stakeholders and the environment.”

Participants will gain insights into biogas technologies that convert methane from manure into renewable energy, contributing to energy diversification and climate change mitigation. The panel will also explore the scalability of these practices and their potential for broader adoption in climate-smart agriculture.

IGS Energy’s projects demonstrate how fostering trust between sectors can lead to innovative solutions, creating environmental and economic benefits. Attendees will learn about the importance of such collaborations in promoting sustainability in farming and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The event underscores the role of dairy farming in climate-smart solutions, offering practical strategies that align with environmental goals while supporting the agricultural community. By transforming methane from dairy manure into a renewable energy source, Ohio sets an example for sustainable farming practices.

This program invites environmental professionals and agricultural stakeholders to explore actionable solutions for a sustainable future.