Jackson expressed concern over the lack of progress despite the Global Methane Pledge: "We don't see any evidence of the global methane pledge helping." He points to the stark reality that total annual methane emissions have surged by 61 million tons or 20% over the past two decades. The research indicates that multiple sectors are contributing to this increase, indicating a widespread and escalating problem. His findings reveal a continued rise in methane that undermines global efforts to tackle climate change.
Using satellite data from 2019 to 2023, Jackson and colleagues observed a 5% rise in methane emissions, corroborated by NOAA data. This persistent increase signals that anthropogenic sources such as waste management and agricultural practices remain significant contributors to emissions, along with natural sources like wetlands. Jackson highlights that both sectors require immediate attention to address this growing climate crisis and emphasizes the importance of addressing methane emissions comprehensively.
Jackson's warning about warming temperatures boosting methane emissions from vulnerable natural ecosystems is alarming. He said, "I'm concerned because we're starting to see evidence of warming temperatures increasing methane emissions from natural ecosystems. And we have no way of mitigating those." This statement underscores the urgent need for more effective strategies to combat the increasing risks from climate factors that could exacerbate methane emissions beyond human control.
Jackson sees hope and urgency in tackling methane emissions: "I hope my research will help people see the huge opportunity we have to reduce methane emissions from a climate menace that we continue to ignore." This emphasizes that while challenges persist, tackling methane could present substantial benefits in the fight against climate change and highlights a potential pathway for more effective global climate policy.
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