Global Methane Emissions Remain Alarmingly High Despite Reduction Pledges
The fight against climate change faces a significant hurdle as global methane emissions from fossil fuels stubbornly hover near record highs, despite new commitments to reduce them. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA)'s Annual Methane Tracker for 2023, human activities such as agriculture, oil and gas production, and the accumulation of food waste in landfills continue to release substantial amounts of methane into the atmosphere, exacerbating the climate crisis.
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is responsible for roughly a third of global temperature increases since pre-industrial times, making its reduction crucial in combating climate change. The IEA report estimates that in 2023, methane emissions from fossil fuel use and production reached nearly 120 million tonnes (Mt), with an additional 10 Mt from bioenergy sources, primarily traditional biomass use. Despite efforts to expand the supply of fossil fuels, the overall intensity of methane production has decreased slightly.
While there are signs of progress, including commitments from fossil fuel companies and governments to address methane emissions, the pace of reduction remains insufficient to meet global climate targets. Satellite data revealed a more than 50 percent increase in large methane emissions events in 2023 compared to the previous year, including significant leaks from fossil fuel operations worldwide.
The top 10 methane emitting countries accounted for around 80% of emissions from fossil fuels in 2023, with the United States leading in emissions from oil and gas production, followed by Russia and China. Alarmingly, the amount of methane lost globally from fossil fuel operations last year exceeded Qatar's entire natural gas production.
However, there is hope for a turnaround, with advancements in satellite technology improving transparency and monitoring of methane leaks. The IEA estimates that if existing pledges and policies to reduce methane emissions are fully implemented, fossil fuel methane emissions could decrease by roughly half by the end of the decade. Yet, many pledges lack detailed plans and regulations to ensure their success.
As countries prepare to update their climate goals under the Paris Agreement, the IEA urges governments to set bolder targets on energy-related methane emissions and implement concrete plans to achieve them. The report emphasizes that reducing fossil fuel demand alone will not suffice; targeted measures to curb methane emissions are essential to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
