What happens to the greenhouse gas methane

Microorganisms in bodies of water are continuously producing methane and breaking it down again. Environmental microbiologist Barbara Bayer wants to discover the processes behind the methane cycle and how human influences, through the overfertilization of lakes and seas, are affecting it. So far, we do not know just how much of the greenhouse gas methane is emitted by bodies of water. With her findings, Bayer wants to help fight climate change.

Even when she’s not conducting field work, Bayer enjoys being outdoors and doing athletic activities. With whatever free time she has left, she likes to bring her favorite subjects, microorganisms, to life in her paintings.