The Reduced Methane Emission in Dairy (REMEDy) innovation trajectory.
The REMEDy stable is an advanced solution that significantly reduces emissions of ammonia, methane, and particulate matter, with measurable benefits for the environment.
Solving Heat Stress in Dairy Cows
In the Netherlands, modern dairy barns are built open to allow airflow during the summer. However, cows start experiencing heat stress at just 18°C. This leads to a productivity drop of around 20 percent. During extended periods of heat, such as the summer of 2020, this decline can persist into the next lactation cycle.
In dry and warm climates, cross-ventilated barns are used with fans and evaporative cooling. But in humid regions, like parts of Southeast Asia and the Gulf States, this system fails. In these environments, cows are often placed under continuous cold showers to deal with the humidity.
Lessons from Other Sectors
Air conditioning and air recirculation are common in pig and poultry farming, and in greenhouse horticulture. The REMEDy barn builds on these concepts and brings them to the dairy sector. It was developed by Wageningen MFC in collaboration with Wageningen University & Research and Vreba.
How the REMEDy Barn Works
At the heart of the REMEDy system is a fully enclosed barn where air is continuously recirculated and conditioned based on temperature, humidity, and gas composition. A newly designed floor separates faeces and urine immediately, which significantly reduces ammonia formation. Any remaining gases are captured and removed through a manure refinery, where ammonia, methane, and particulate matter are neutralised before the air is released.
Key Benefits
Improved cow productivity through reduced heat stress
Methane emissions reused as a circular energy source
Substantial reduction in ammonia, methane, odour, and particulate emissions
Enhanced animal welfare and comfort through full climate control
A socially responsible and future-proof solution for dairy farming
The REMEDy barn addresses the major challenges in dairy production by offering an integrated approach to climate control, emission reduction, energy use, and animal welfare.
Innovation and Ownership
The REMEDy concept is protected by patent and owned by YorInnovation BV: De Bruin, Y. A. T. F. H (2018). Climate controlled stable. YOR Innovation b.v. Netherlands. 2022333 (P1600078NL00).
The concept is promoted and implemented by Remedy Stable BV
