Methane Emissions Still Rising After Pledges to Curb Pollution

Fossil fuel industry named as largest contributor

Despite global pledges to reduce methane emissions, levels of the potent greenhouse gas continue to rise, with the fossil fuel industry identified as the largest contributor. This comes as a disappointment to climate activists and scientists, who had hoped for significant progress in curbing methane emissions. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential 25 times greater than that of carbon dioxide. It is emitted from various sources, including natural wetlands, landfills, and agricultural practices. However, the fossil fuel industry is the largest emitter, accounting for around 35% of global methane emissions.

Slow progress in reducing emissions

According to the Global Methane Assessment, methane emissions have increased by 9% since 2000, despite pledges by countries to reduce them. The assessment, conducted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, found that the fossil fuel industry is the largest contributor to this increase, accounting for 50% of the growth in emissions since 2000. The report also found that emissions from agriculture and waste management are also significant contributors.

Need for urgent action

Experts warn that urgent action is needed to reduce methane emissions, as it is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes significantly to climate change. They call for stronger regulations on the fossil fuel industry and investment in renewable energy sources. The fossil fuel industry has been criticized for its slow progress in reducing emissions, with some companies accused of deliberately misleading the public about their environmental performance.

Call for transparency and accountability

Climate activists are calling for greater transparency and accountability from the fossil fuel industry. They demand that companies disclose their methane emissions and take concrete steps to reduce them. They also call for governments to implement stricter regulations on methane emissions and to provide incentives for the development of renewable energy sources.

Conclusion

The continued rise in methane emissions is a major concern for climate scientists and activists. The fossil fuel industry has been identified as the largest contributor to this increase, and experts are calling for urgent action to reduce emissions. Stronger regulations on the fossil fuel industry and investment in renewable energy sources are essential to curb methane emissions and mitigate climate change.