Summary

Manure and urine from livestock being exported by sea produce ammonia, while machinery on ships may also emit gases such as carbon dioxide. Under certain conditions, there is a risk of higher concentration levels in the air, which may affect livestock and shipboard personnel.

Using an Open Innovation approach, a proof-of-concept (PoC) trial was conducted over two voyages to test the feasibility of adapting autonomous sensors from other industries for continuous monitoring of ammonia, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, temperature, and humidity on livestock export ships.

The trial showed that the sensors reliably recorded data, highlighting the potential for this technology to support real-time interventions, regulatory compliance, and reduced manual labour to enhance animal welfare and operational safety. The project underscores the value of such innovations in improving livestock export standards and monitoring welfare on ships.

The data showed ammonia levels were consistently below the 25ppm regulated through the Australian Standards for the Export of Livestock (ASEL).

This project was managed by the Livestock Export RD&E Program, a collaboration between LiveCorp and Meat & Livestock Australia.

Objectives

• Design a comprehensive PoC trial design and methodology in collaboration with stakeholders, such as vessel owners and exporters.

• Install and maintain the sensors and equipment required to detect the gases and environmental conditions on board the vessel

• Conduct trials and collected relevant data and information to inform the final report.

Key findings

• Sensors effectively monitored gas levels, temperature, and humidity

• Ammonia levels were consistently below the regulated threshold of 25 ppm required under ASEL 3.3.

• Short and long-haul voyages showed no significant difference in gas or ammonia levels, suggesting consistency across different voyage types.

Benefits to industry

The project benefits the livestock export industry by identifying technology capable of providing reliable, continuous monitoring of on-board conditions, helping to enhance animal welfare and enable early intervention to mitigate risks.