Rising Methane Emissions Turbocharging Climate Change: A Global Concern

A recent study reveals that methane emissions from human activities have significantly increased, contributing to climate change. Methane levels in the atmosphere are now 2.6 times higher than in pre-industrial times. The study warns that these emissions must be reduced to meet climate goals.

The surge in methane emissions from human activities is accelerating climate change, according to a new study released on Tuesday. The research found that global methane emissions reached 670 million tons in 2020, marking a nearly 12 percent rise since 2000. This increase is mainly attributed to human activities such as fossil fuel burning, large-scale agriculture, and landfill operations.

Study lead author Rob Jackson, head of the Global Carbon Project, highlighted the alarming rate at which methane levels have risen, noting that methane levels are now 2.6 times higher than in pre-industrial times. Jackson emphasized that methane is a potent climate agent and called for urgent global action to cut emissions. Despite methane's shorter atmospheric lifespan compared to carbon dioxide, its immediate impact on warming is far more substantial.

Addition to human influences, natural sources like tropical wetlands have also contributed to rising methane levels, further complicating reduction efforts. The findings underscore the need for enhanced focus on methane reduction strategies to meet global climate targets outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement.

(With inputs from agencies.)