Methane emissions, one of the most powerful greenhouse gases, continue to cause significant damage to the climate. The UN program from the environment has released alarming data: with the help of satellites, more than 1,200 leaks of methane in the oil and gas sector were recorded, but only in 15 cases governments or companies have taken measures to eliminate them. Other cases remain unaddressed, despite the promise of emissions.
According to Methanesat satellite, the real methane emissions are much higher than previous estimates. In some areas, the losses of this gas were 10 times higher than the previous assumptions. For example, on the outskirts of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, there are permanent methane plumes that flow from oil and gas fields.
This happens at a time when the world leaders are found at the UN Conference on Climate Change (COP29) to discuss the financing of the fight against global warming. Meanwhile, the situation demonstrates how deep the problem of the irresponsibility of large hydrocarbon producers remains.
European countries also cannot boast success in the fight against methane origins. For example, Romania, which has the highest oil reserves on the continent, suffers from the deterioration of its infrastructure. Significant methane losses are recorded every year. Even with the planned entry into force of the new European Rules in 2025, it remains unknown whether countries, including Romania, will be able to respond effectively to this environmental crisis.
At the COP28 Climate Summit in 2023, more than 150 countries have promised to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030 compared to 2020. But the UN report demonstrates that real actions are lagging behind ambitious promises. Companies and governments not only do not respond to reports, but also hide actual emissions.
Scientists emphasize that prevention of methane origins can be one of the most effective ways to slow down climate change. Methane is much more powerful than CO₂ in its ability to keep heat in the atmosphere, so reducing it can have a rapid effect. However, political will, transparency by companies and the introduction of the latest technologies for monitoring and elimination of leaks are required.
While methane emissions remain out of the proper control, humanity risks more close to environmental disaster. Urgent action is necessary to translate climate promises into specific solutions.
