Study finds methane rising faster than other greenhouse gases

Methane concentrations in the atmosphere are increasing at an accelerating rate, posing a threat to global climate targets, according to a study by the Global Carbon Project published in Environmental Research Letters. Methane, the second most abundant greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide, is rising faster than any other major greenhouse gas and is now 2.6 times higher than pre-industrial levels. While its short-term impact is 80 times more potent than CO2, it breaks down more quickly, offering a window to reduce its climate impact.

Despite global efforts to curb methane emissions, levels continue to rise, particularly in China and Southeast Asia, due to coal, oil, gas production, and landfills. The average annual methane increase rose dramatically from 6.1 million tonnes in the 2000s to 41.8 million tonnes in 2020. The La Niña weather pattern has also contributed to natural methane emissions.

A 2021 pledge to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030, led by the U.S. and EU, appears increasingly difficult to achieve. Scientists, including lead author Rob Jackson, caution that current efforts may fall short unless more aggressive action is taken. China and the U.S. are set to host a summit on non-CO2 greenhouse gases later this year, potentially leading to new commitments.

Source – CGTN