California is turning to an unusual set of environmental helpers, worms and microbes to tackle one of agriculture’s most serious pollution problems. Scientists and farmers are beginning to use these small creatures to convert livestock manure into fertilisers using a natural process that not only keeps pollutants out of the environment but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and foul odours.

At least in California, which has become a test bed for emerging means of cleaning up livestock emissions.

California is turning to an unusual set of environmental helpers, worms and microbes to tackle one of agriculture’s most serious pollution problems. Scientists and farmers are…