Global Methane Emissions Hit Record High

Global methane emissions have surged to unprecedented levels, driven primarily by human activities such as agriculture, fossil fuel extraction, and waste management. Recent studies, including the latest Global Methane Budget and research from the Global Carbon Project, highlight that methane levels reached a record high of 1,931 parts per billion in April 2024, significantly contributing to global warming. Despite over 150 nations committing to the Global Methane Pledge to cut emissions by 30% by 2030, atmospheric methane concentrations continue to rise. The US renewable natural gas (RNG) industry is growing rapidly, with a 33.8% increase in facilities aimed at capturing methane from decomposing organic waste and using it as transportation fuel, potentially helping to reduce emissions. Experts emphasize that reducing methane emissions is one of the most effective short-term strategies to mitigate climate change impacts, given methane's high potency but relatively short atmospheric lifespan.