Methane Emissions Surge Amidst Global Energy Crisis

A new IEA report reveals alarmingly high levels of methane emissions in 2025 from fossil fuels, exacerbating climate change. Despite available technologies, emissions from coal dominate, notably in the Caspian region. Addressing methane leaks could boost global gas market security amid current supply challenges.

A recent report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) has disclosed distressingly high levels of methane emissions from fossil fuels in 2025, contributing significantly to global warming. Methane ranks as a major climate change accelerator, following carbon dioxide.

The 'Global Methane Tracker 2026' report notes that fossil fuel production hit unprecedented highs in 2025, leading to an emission total of 124 million tonnes annually. Among the sources, oil accounts for 45 Mt, coal for 43 Mt, and natural gas for 36 Mt.

Despite the availability of cost-effective technologies to mitigate methane emissions, particularly from coal, there is insufficient action being taken. The report stresses that controlling methane could aid global gas market stability, vital in the wake of recent supply disruptions.