Understanding the Global Methane Status Report 2025
The latest Global Methane Status Report 2025 brings to light the alarming rise of methane emissions, emphasizing that crop-residue burning is propelling India into the spotlight as a global methane hotspot. This report, a collaboration between the UN Environment Programme and the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), serves as a crucial update on the efforts and challenges in mitigating methane emissions worldwide.
Key Insights from the Report
- Methane's atmospheric levels have surged, more than doubling since pre-industrial times.
- Projected global emissions could lead to an estimated 24,000 additional premature deaths and 2.5 million tonnes of crop losses annually by 2030.
- India stands as the third-largest emitter of methane globally, with its agricultural sector contributing to 12% of global agricultural methane emissions.
- Full implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Methane Action Plans could reduce emissions by 8% by 2030.
- The report highlights that 72% of global methane mitigation potential is within G20+ countries, which contribute 65% of global anthropogenic methane emissions.
Exploring Methane: The Hydrocarbon Fueling Climate Change
Methane (CH4) is a significant hydrocarbon primarily found in natural gas. Characterized as a colorless and odorless gas, it is flammable and insoluble in water. Often referred to as marsh gas or methyl hydride, methane plays a substantial role in the current climate crisis, accounting for roughly a third of the warming we are experiencing today.
For more in-depth insights, explore the full report here.
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