News

Published September 14, 2021

Scientists are saving the planet one cow at a time...by potty training them

Farting cows aren't the only thing we need to worry about...
MooLoo

Scientists have successfully trained a few calves to use something called a 'MooLoo' and it could lead to reduced overall emissions.

So, why potty-train cows? Cow urine contains a large amount of something that breaks down into nitrate, which pollutes nearby bodies of water, and nitrous oxide, which is a greenhouse gas 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide. By training cows to use a certain spot when they do their business, the urine can be cleaned before it causes any problems to the environment. The MooLoo isn't anything fancy either, just a fenced-off area lined with artificial grass.

If you're interested in the full report, you can find it here.

The scientists used a special vibrating collar that would direct the cows to the MooLoo and once they relieved themselves, they would be rewarded with a treat. If any of the cows urinated somewhere else, the scientists would use a spray bottle of cold water, which doesn't harm the animals, it just annoys them (cat and dog owners know this too well). The training took place over the course of 15 days, and nearly 70% of the cows were successfully potty-trained!

Related Local News: Electric Vehicle converter company Ettractive to move into Oro Station Auto Park

The next time you're in a pinch and have to use a porta-potty, you might have to wait in line behind a few of our bovine buddies.


Featured image courtesy of Cottonbro via pexels.com

What do you think of this article?
+1
0
+1
0
+1
0
+1
0
+1
0
+1
0
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Have a breaking story?

Share it with us!
Share Your Story

What Barrie's talking about!

From breaking news to the best slice of pizza in town! Get everything Barrie’s talking about delivered right to your inbox every day. Don’t worry, we won’t spam you. We promise :)
Subscription Form
Consent Info

By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Central Ontario Broadcasting, 431 Huronia Rd, Barrie, Ontario, CA, https://www.cobroadcasting.com. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

Related Stories

Advertisement
Advertisement