The International Energy Agency’s latest report highlights that global methane emissions are not decreasing, revealing significant gaps in policy implementation. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, causing 80 times more warming than carbon dioxide over 20 years, making its regulation critical in addressing climate change.
The University of Oxford’s Climate Policy Monitor found over 100 methane policies across 32 jurisdictions, but less than a third are mandatory. Some major emitters like India and Indonesia lack clear policies, raising concerns as they account for over 12% of global emissions.
While there is some progress in targeting methane from fossil fuels, regulations often lack public disclosure, verification, and standardized measurement methods. Japan stands out with effective policies, achieving a 40% reduction in methane emissions from 1990 to 2022.
Agricultural methane, which constitutes about 40% of human emissions, remains largely unregulated. Less than half of the identified policies target agriculture, and many are not mandatory. This focus on energy while neglecting agriculture underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach, including dietary changes in developed countries to mitigate emissions.
Despite setbacks, such as delays in U.S. methane regulations, there is a global trend towards stronger climate policies, particularly in developing regions. By enhancing policy rigor and enforcement, there remains a possibility to significantly reduce methane emissions and combat climate change effectively.
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