BAKU, Nov 18 (IPS) – Methane emissions have emerged as a focus of discussion as world leaders gather at COP29 in Baku to tackle the growing climate crisis.
In an exclusive interview with IPS, Roland Kupers, chief architect of the United Nations Environment Program’s (UNEP) International Methane Emissions Observatory, outlined strategies that can be implemented to curb methane emissions by 2030, future challenges, and the important role of international cooperation.
The Methane Problem: Sectoral Challenges and Opportunities
“Methane emissions are not a single issue but a set of problems involving five key sectors: oil and gas, coal, waste, rice and livestock,” said Kupers. He adds that each sector needs complementary solutions.
“UNEP has prioritized the oil and gas industry because of its mitigation potential.”
“The oil and gas industry could reduce methane pollution by 75 percent by 2030. It is not only affordable but also possible, if the industry has access to technology, capital and expertise,” said Kupers, adding that the waste disposal industry also shows great importance. opportunities, although planning mitigation measures in this sector poses logistical challenges.
UNEP’s approach includes developing detailed plans to address emissions from high-output industries such as oil, gas, and steel.
“Methane emissions are a third of the climate impact of steel production, but can be eliminated at a cost of less than 1% of the cost of steel production.”
Data: Cornerstone of Action
The Kupers also emphasized the important role of accurate data in driving methane reduction efforts.
“Data is critical to human agency. Without accurate, measurement-based data, it is impossible to identify and address specific sources of emissions effectively.”
According to him, most of the existing data sets depend on the extracts taken from outdated studies. UNEP advocates a shift to real-time, site-specific measurements for better targeting.
“When you collect accurate data, you often get unexpected releases, which underscores the need for accurate monitoring.”
Systematic Change in the Energy Sector
In order to comply with the 2030 climate goals, the Kupers are arguing for a fundamental change in the world’s energy system.
“While reducing methane emissions is important, it is not a substitute for carbon emissions. The main goal should be to eliminate electricity.”
He also pointed out the health benefits of reducing methane emissions.
“Methane, both directly and from incomplete combustion, contributes to significant local health risks.”
Financial Perspective
While climate discussions often focus on the financial challenges of adaptation and mitigation, Kupers believes that addressing methane emissions, especially in the oil and gas sector, is not a financial burden.
“The oil and gas industry is very profitable and well-resourced. It has no reason not to look at its methane gas,” Kupers said, adding that even oil and gas operations in developing countries operate in very complex, subsidized areas.
Responsibilities of Developed Nations
The methane issue is separate from the broader climate equity debate, Kupers explained.
“With the release of methane from oil and gas, the responsibility for performance is universal. Whether in Nigeria, Argentina, or Indonesia, the industry operates with the same high standards and competence as in developed countries.”
These benefits all make methane reduction a “good climate story,” as it overcomes some of the equity challenges seen in broader decarbonization discussions.
Barriers to Development
Despite decades of climate negotiations, major obstacles remain in tackling global warming. He says the slow progress is due to a lack of prioritization and awareness of the role of methane.
“Methane has recently come to the fore on the global agenda. The science highlighting its importance has emerged in the last decade,” said Kupers. Policy makers are often unaware of the large methane climate or the cost-effective solutions available.
Key Objectives of COP-29
“UNEP has established ambitious goals to reduce methane. The Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP 2.0), an initiative led by UNEP, currently includes companies responsible for 42 percent of the world’s oil and gas production. Kupers urged more companies to join, the goal is to achieve 80 percent participation,” said Kupers.
Another important initiative is the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS), which combines data from a dozen satellites to identify important sources of emissions. UNEP then informs governments and companies about these exports.
“Last year, we sent 1,200 notifications to governments, but the response rate was low—just one percent,” said Kupers, a disappointing lack of engagement that points to the need for stronger accountability measures at COP29.
Statistics: Why Methane Matters
Human-caused methane emissions are responsible for a third of the current warming. Unlike CO2, which is often a byproduct of energy use, methane emissions are mostly emissions. This makes it easier to deal with them and a significant opportunity for weather action.
“Methane reduction is not just an environmental need but a low-hanging fruit. It is a problem that can be solved, and we must use this opportunity,” said Kupers.
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