Story perspectives

Tree Bark Microbes Could Slash Global Methane Emissions

3/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Australian researchers report tree bark microbes significantly reduce greenhouse gases, including methane, hydrogen, and carbon monoxide.
The study, published in Science, estimates these microbes could consume 25 to 50 million tons of methane globally.
The microbes consume 35% less methane than what is absorbed from the soil.
The finding could guide forest restoration by selecting tree species based on their microbial communities, potentially removing multiple climate gases with one planting.

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Story summary

Australian researchers report tree bark microbes significantly reduce greenhouse gases, including methane, hydrogen, and carbon monoxide.
The study, published in Science, estimates these microbes could consume 25 to 50 million tons of methane globally.
The microbes consume 35% less methane than what is absorbed from the soil.
The finding could guide forest restoration by selecting tree species based on their microbial communities, potentially removing multiple climate gases with one planting.