The analysis identifies South-South trade as a key driver, with Asia and the Pacific emerging as the largest emitters due to rapid industrial growth and population expansion. While developed countries have managed to cut emissions through efficiency improvements, developing nations continue to experience sharp increases.
Methane is around 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. Because it remains in the atmosphere for only a short time, cutting emissions now can produce immediate climate benefits. Lead author Prof. Yuli Shan of the University of Birmingham said, "Methane has a short atmospheric lifespan, which means reductions today can have an immediate impact. Our findings underscore the need for coordinated global action, especially in developing regions where emissions are rising fastest."
The research identifies fertiliser production, oil and gas operations, livestock farming, and waste management as high-impact sectors. Policy options include advanced leak detection, improved feed formulations, better waste treatment, and reduced red meat consumption.
Co-author Prof. Klaus Hubacek from the University of Groningen noted, "This study provides a roadmap for policymakers to integrate methane into national climate strategies. It's not just about where emissions occur, but why - and that requires looking at the entire supply chain."
Trade-related methane emissions were found to account for about 30% of the global total. Although emission intensity fell by 67% between 1998 and 2023 thanks to technological progress, absolute methane volumes remain high. Methane is linked to about 30% of observed global warming since pre-industrial times and contributes to air pollution that causes an estimated one million premature deaths each year.
Research Report:Global methane footprints growth and drivers 1990-2023
Related Links
University of Birmingham
All About Oil and Gas News at OilGasDaily.com
| Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters |
| Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters |
