Startup Sells Methane-Eating Microbes to Whole Foods
- Startup Windfall to offer methane-eating microbes at Whole Foods.
- Methane-consuming microbes are naturally occurring and thrive in soil.
- Promising sustainable solution for reducing methane emissions.
In the ongoing battle against climate change, reducing carbon emissions has been a primary focus, but experts emphasize the urgent need to address methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Windfall Bio, a company specializing in microbial technology, has developed a solution that captures methane and converts it into fertilizer. CEO Josh Silverman describes their product, known as "mems," as akin to yeast in bread-making, which consumes sugar and produces carbon dioxide. By utilizing mems, farmers and oil and gas operators can transform waste methane into valuable fertilizer. Windfall Bio's innovative approach has garnered significant interest, with clients ranging from dairy farmers to oil and gas companies. The technology allows users to create their own fertilizer from methane emissions, promoting a sustainable and circular economy. Silverman notes that the mems provide a "truly clean" fertilizer option, which has been in development for over a decade and was launched to clients two years ago. The response has exceeded expectations, with customers now spanning nearly every continent. Despite competition in the fertilizer sector and emerging methane capture technologies, Windfall's mems method stands out as unique. Brett Morris, managing director at Cavallo Ventures, acknowledges the company's potential, stating that while they are still in the early stages, they are rapidly addressing the growing global demand for sustainable solutions. To date, Windfall Bio has successfully raised $37 million in funding, positioning itself as a key player in the fight against methane emissions.