New Zealand | Methane emission reduction

2026 Top Agri-food Pioneers: Hayden Montgomery

Hayden Montgomery, program director for agriculture at the Global Methane Hub, leads a global effort to coordinate and fund cutting-edge research to reduce methane emissions from livestock and rice production. Under his leadership, the agriculture program mobilized over $230 million through global research initiatives spanning more than 30 countries. Montgomery launched the $200 million Enteric Fermentation R&D Accelerator, the largest coordinated global investment in livestock methane mitigation research for low-methane genetics, vaccines and feed additives. He also launched the Rice Methane Innovation Accelerator, mobilizing $30 million for research in soil microbiomes, plant breeding and improved water management practices. Montgomery previously served as Special Representative of the Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases, strengthening scientific networks, training early-career scientists and increasing investment in agricultural greenhouse gas research. He persistently navigates the complex topic of methane mitigation while maintaining a focus on tangible, win-win solutions.