A group of scientists published a new study that focused on other greenhouse gases responsible for global warming, mainly, methane. Methane, just like carbon dioxide, is a key gas when it comes to the heating of the planet. However, the scientists noted that other greenhouse gases are underrepresented in the grand scheme of things. Hence, the study was launched to understand the impacts of other greenhouse gases, mainly methane, and the role they play in climate change.

The study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and spelled out that humanity needs to drastically cut methane emissions quickly to limit global heating under 1.5 degrees Celsius, which is the target laid out in the Paris climate agreement. The scientists noted that methane as well as other “short-lived climate pollutants” (SLCP) such as soot, hydrofluorocarbon, ground-level ozone and nitrous oxide can significantly increase the temperature of our planet. The SLCPs contribute to global warming as much as carbon dioxide. Methane can trap 80 times as much heat as compared to carbon dioxide, although it degrades quicker than carbon dioxide. The scientists warn that we could be facing a much larger climate crisis if methane emissions are not reduced sharply.

The co-author of the paper, Prof Durwood Zaelke who is also the president of the Washington-based Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (IGSD) said that we need drastic measures for drastic solutions. He emphasized that the time to act is now and we have got no time to waste. He added that reducing methane emissions will buy humanity some time while we pursue decarbonization efforts. The scientists noted that simply plugging gas pipes is one of the cheapest and simplest solution to reduce methane emissions.

In addition to gas pipe leaks, oil exploration and the meat industry are also responsible for methane emissions. The International Energy Agency (IEA) noted, earlier this year, that many countries are not disclosing their methane emissions accurately which may mean that the methane problem is much more severe than previously thought.

The study urged humanity to pursue decreasing emissions of methane and SLCPs while also pursuing decarbonization efforts. The scientists noted that decarbonization efforts alone may not quell the climate crisis and the planet could soar above 2 degrees Celsius, which was the upper limit set in the Paris climate agreement. Before the COP26 climate summit last year, the US and EU created a joint-pledge to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030. More than 100 nations joined the pledge to reduce methane emissions. Russia did not join the pledge despite being one of the highest emitter of methane due to its poor infrastructure in gas pipes which are inherently leaky.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/may/23/sharp-cut-methane-climate-crisis-carbon-dioxide-global-heating