Abandoned coalmines and oil and gas wells now represent significant sources of methane emissions, with levels exceeding those of Iran, making them the fourth largest global source. This situation poses a major challenge in the fight against climate change, as methane is 80 times more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide. The International Energy Agency estimates that cleaning up these sites could cost around $100 billion, yet finding funding remains difficult. Urgent action is needed as current efforts to curb methane emissions are insufficient despite their importance in addressing the climate crisis.
Abandoned coalmines and oil and gas wells are significant sources of methane emissions, surpassing those from even Iran, highlighting a critical environmental issue.
The International Energy Agency reports that cleaning up abandoned fossil fuel sites to reduce methane emissions could cost about $100 billion.
Tomas de Oliveira Bredariol noted that addressing methane emissions from abandoned facilities requires efforts to monitor and identify issues, but economic returns are often lacking.
Rapidly reducing methane emissions is crucial for the climate crisis, as methane traps heat in the atmosphere far more effectively than carbon dioxide.
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