What do you Methane?

Methane is a hydrocarbon; its molecular structure is one of carbon and hydrogen atoms only. Like carbon dioxide, methane is a greenhouse gas. As well as being linked to climate impacts it also reduces air quality. It is a colourless gas which is distributed into the atmosphere from many different sources including:

Agriculture

Domesticated cattle are the largest polluters of all agriculture, with cows each
single cow producing approximately 220 pounds of methane!

Landfills

Landfill sites are anaerobic areas where matter (specifically organic) is left to
decompose without oxygen. This results in the production of methane gas!

Natural sources

Approximately 1 third of methane gas comes from wetland environments, naturally occurring sites where oxygen-deprived soils release methane. However, because of global warming, thawing icecaps are now also releasing methane gas that has previously been stored within the ice.

Why it is such an impactful gas on the environment?

Methane as a chemical is incredibly effective at trapping heat, which means that even a small amount of excess in our atmosphere can be catastrophic when it comes to heating the planet.

At this current moment the projection of methane into the atmosphere is increasing steadily, constantly. The levels are currently 2.5 times higher than that of pre-industrial levels. When you compare this fact to the previous statement, it is almost impossible to avoid the fact that this gas (in excess) is detrimental to our planet and its ecosystem!

Biodegradable material when in landfill is a large issue. Methane is produced when this type of material is left to decompose in anaerobic environments (without oxygen). This includes all types of organic matter, including things like coffee grounds.

At Ethilution we recognise this, which is why we partner with bio-bean to ensure that 100% of these grounds removed from our capsules are upcycled into sustainable products, instead of ending up in landfill and contributing to greenhouse gasses. Are rescued coffee grounds are undergoing constant research and development in order to offer innovative green alternatives that are environmentally positive.