Methane Emissions – How it is Particularly Problematic?

If methane somehow leaks into the air, it starts to behave like a greenhouse gas – akin to carbon dioxide – because it starts to absorb the thermal energy from the sun and re-radiates it. The fact that methane is more powerful in causing devastation than carbon dioxide makes it thoroughly problematic.

Why are methane emissions problematic?

Methane molecules are far faster and more effective in absorbing heat as compared to carbon dioxide molecules. Methane molecules do not keep lingering in the atmosphere as long as the molecules of carbon dioxide. This is why it is very important to address the issue of methane emissions because it will help slow down the global warming of the Earth’s atmosphere considerably. It is crucial to remember that almost 15% of the global warming that happens is due to the emission of methane.

Research points that the presence of methane impacts the Earth’s atmosphere 34 times more powerfully than CO2 over a span of a century.

Methane emission has increased with human activity

The emission of this harmful gas has increased due to human activity. One of the biggest sources of methane emission is fossil fuel production - due to extraction and processing of natural gas.

The other source of production and emission of methane is from livestock – the digestive process of cattle and bullocks leads to the production of potent methane. The other source of methane emissions are landfills from where it is estimated that about 13% of the world’s total methane is emitted. As the waste decomposes, methane gas is emitted which is why it is important to clean the fills.

With increased human activity, the release of methane has increased in the atmosphere. With increased amounts of methane in the air, global warming accelerates, making climate change more drastic. This is why more and more participation at the UN level with international organizations and NGOs and the corporate sector is required to practice viable waste management techniques. This is to reduce the production and methane emissions and take control of, whether it is the agricultural sector or the fuel industry.