The imminent impact of climate change can be managed only when we address all GHGs of which Methane has been recognized to be the one giving immense benefit in short time frame. Tracking methane emissions from their root sources can provide the impetus to take appropriate actions.
Recently, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change launched the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS) at the 27th Conference of Parties (COP27) in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. The Methane alert and response system aims to provide information on methane emissions from various sectors and the detection of methane hotspots, helping the government take mitigation measures.
Empirical satellite data can provide a comprehensive view of methane emissions from various sources, including oil and gas operations and waste management. This information can help policymakers and the private sector develop targeted strategies to trap methane emissions.
Using real-time satellite data, India can identify methane hotspots, reducing emissions immediately and improving policy-making in India by using empirical satellite data and technology development. Currently, India is pursuing a low-carbon economy and intends to curb methane emissions from oil and gas operations, coal mining, landfills, and transportation as part of its carbon neutrality goal. Understanding sources will also encourage technology development, innovation and implementation which will provide economic benefits too as Methane is a good energy source.
Tracking is the key to improving Methane leakage control from any sector.
Due to rapid development in India, methane emissions are expected to increase, so curbing and utilising them should be a priority. It is high time that India introduces policy and financial incentives to promote the use of methane detection and use of cost-effective technologies to promote public-private partnerships to build capacity in the sector.
Oil and gas operations, coal mining, and waste management should be top priorities because they have the capacity to take immediate mitigation measures effectively with low-cost, sustainable technological solutions.
India is transitioning to diversify its energy portfolio and increasing the contribution of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, which are clean and sustainable and mitigate Methane.
Methane can be a great opportunity for public and private partnerships, wherein reduction up to 15% of industrial methane is possible in conjunction with technology intervention and social scientific conversation.
Furthermore, it is crucial to involve Policy Maker and stakeholders in the decision-making process to ensure the success and sustainability of these initiatives. This can be achieved through effective communication and education campaigns that raise awareness about the importance of reducing methane emissions.
Proper management of methane emissions will not only benefit the environment but also improve public health, safety besides providing economic benefits.
Methane is the primary component of natural gas, which is responsible for about 30% of the Earth’s warming. Methane (CH₄) concentrations in the atmosphere have more than doubled since pre-industrial times. (CH₄) is the second-leading cause of climate change after carbon dioxide (CO2), rising to 1.5 degrees Celsius or likely 2 degrees Celsius.
Methane remains in the atmosphere for about 12 years, and its global warming potential is 84 times greater than that of carbon dioxide (CO2) over 100 years, making it a more potent greenhouse gas.
India’s vision of carbon neutrality necessitates a comprehensive approach to mitigating methane emissions by supplementing its existing Paris Agreement commitments with the development of new sustainable methane strategies to achieve its carbon neutrality goal, should consider introducing a methane-based waste management and reduction framework with targets for managing methane emissions to reach its carbon neutrality goals by 2070.
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