Methane, an often overlooked greenhouse gas, is under the spotlight in a new report titled “The Imperative of Cutting Methane from Fossil Fuels.” The report is a joint effort by the International Energy Agency (IEA), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the UNEP-convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition. It underscores the importance of targeted mitigation efforts against methane emissions to battle global warming.
Methane’s Role in Global Warming
The report highlights that mitigating methane emissions is crucial to constrain global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Methane, being a potent greenhouse gas, has contributed to roughly 30% of global warming since the Industrial Revolution. Through proactive measures, it’s possible to avert about 0.1°C of warming by 2050.
Assessing the Present Methane Emission Scenario
Currently, humans produce around 580 million tonnes of methane annually, with 60% of these emissions resulting from human activities. Fossil fuel operations account for about 120 million tonnes of methane emissions in 2022 alone. If left unchecked, these anthropogenic methane emissions could surge up to 13% between 2020 and 2030.
The Need for Targeted Methane Mitigation
If methane emissions are not addressed alongside reducing fossil fuel usage, global temperatures could rise beyond 1.6°C by 2050. As a result, targeted mitigation strategies against methane emissions are essential and should supplement decarbonization endeavors. Current technologies can prevent over 80 million tonnes of methane emissions from fossil fuels annually by 2030. Investing around USD 75 billion by 2030 into all methane reduction measures in the oil and gas sector can secure a Net Zero future.
Economic and Health Benefits of Methane Mitigation
Methane is the primary contributor to ground-level ozone pollution. Mitigation actions could prevent almost one million premature deaths by 2050, equivalent to the current population of Amsterdam. Reduction targets will also avert 95 million tonnes of crop losses for wheat, rice, soy, and maize (corn), valued at over USD 260 billion between 2020 and 2050.
Regulatory Frameworks for Methane Reduction
Effective methane reduction requires the implementation of suitable regulatory frameworks. These include eliminating routine venting and flaring and repairing leaks in the energy sector.
An Overview of Methane
Methane, a straightforward hydrocarbon, is a potent greenhouse gas that can affect the climate for hundreds of years. It’s primarily released from oil and natural gas systems, agricultural activities, coal mining, and wastes.
Initiatives to Curb Methane Emissions
Both India and global entities have taken various initiatives to curb methane emissions. These include India’s Harit Dhara (HD) and BS VI Emission Norms, and the global Methane Alert and Response System (MARS) and Global Methane Pledge.
About International Energy Agency
The IEA is an autonomous Intergovernmental Organisation established in 1974 in Paris, France. Its mission is to provide reliable, affordable, and clean energy for its member countries.
About United Nations Environment Programme
UNEP is a leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and serves as an authoritative advocate for global environment protection. It supports its 193 Member States to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and live in harmony with nature.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Climate and Clean Air Coalition
The UNEP-Convened Climate and Clean Air Coalition is a voluntary global partnership working to reduce short-lived climate pollutants that significantly impact climate change and public health.
Tackling Methane Emission Issues in Civil Services Exams
Questions related to methane emissions, its sources, and the necessity to curb it are frequently asked in the UPSC Civil Services examinations. For instance, a 2019 Prelims question revolved around ‘Methane hydrate’ deposits and their potential contribution to global warming. Further, a Mains question from 2018 focused on the progress made in India regarding access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy—crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
