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Indian Express
4 days ago
- General
- Indian Express
Methane mitigation, key to slowing global warming
— Renuka Reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions is crucial to fighting climate change. After carbon dioxide, methane is the most potent GHG responsible for approximately a third of global warming. It is a colourless, odourless gas that has both natural as well as anthropogenic sources. Naturally, it is produced in a wetland due to the decomposition of vegetation under water. Other natural sources include termites, volcanoes, wildfires, etc. The primary sectors responsible for anthropogenic methane emissions are: Agriculture, which accounts for 40% of emissions and includes animal manure and rice cultivation. After this, the fossil fuel sector accounts for 35% of methane emissions. Waste management is responsible for roughly 20% of emissions, originating from the decomposition of organic matter in landfills, open dumps, and wastewater treatment systems. Methane is widely used as a fuel for electricity generation, heating, cooking, and in industrial processes. It also serves as a key feedstock for hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol production, and is used in transportation (CNG/LNG) and as renewable biogas. Despite its utility, methane emerged as a major climate concern. It has a shorter lifespan compared to CO₂ but is much more efficient in trapping radiation. As the climate crisis intensifies, tackling methane emissions has become an urgent and impactful strategy for reducing GHG emissions. Reducing methane emissions has long been a part of climate change mitigation efforts. The 1992 UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) laid the foundation to combat climate change by adopting the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC) and placing the obligation on developed countries to reduce GHG emissions. However, being just a framework convention, the UNFCCC didn't specify the GHGs or set binding targets. To implement the convention, the Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 and came into force in 2005. It listed six GHGs, and methane was one of them. The Kyoto Protocol imposed binding emission reduction targets on developed countries. The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, marked a shift towards a voluntary approach (nationally determined approach), while still expecting developed countries to take the lead in setting emissions targets. In recent years, abating methane emissions has been recognised as one of the most effective and affordable strategies to reduce global warming. At COP 26, the Global Methane Pledge (GMP) was launched as a voluntary international initiative with its primary goal of reducing global methane emissions by at least 30 per cent from 2020 levels by 2030. To enhance global reporting on methane emissions, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) also launched the International Methane Emission Observatory (IMEO). To further support methane data collection, the UNEP launched the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS) at COP27 (2022). MARS is a global satellite detection and notification system that provides data on methane emissions. Building on these efforts, COP 28 established the Oil and Gas Decarbonisation Charter (ODGC), which aims at accelerating the decarbonisation of the oil and gas sector. The charter aims at achieving net-zero upstream methane emissions by 2030. At COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, over 30 countries endorsed the Declaration on Reducing Methane from Organic Waste, marking a significant advancement in global climate initiatives. This declaration targets methane emissions from organic waste, such as food scraps, agricultural residues, and sewage, which account for nearly 20% of anthropogenic methane emissions. The Global Methane Initiative (GMI), launched in 2004 as the Methane to Markets Partnership, is an initiative to foster collaborations to reduce methane emissions. It works in collaboration with other key international environmental initiatives and agencies such as the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), the Global Methane Hub, and the World Bank Group to reduce global methane emissions. Over the past two decades, GMI has helped raise global awareness about methane's climate and health impacts, fostered international cooperation, and mobilised investments in methane mitigation efforts. GMI has also been a key sponsor of various events on methane mitigation. One such event is Methane Mitigation: Technology & Innovation Summit, which will be held on June 2-4, 2025, in Austin, Texas, US. Organised by the Industrial Decarbonisation Network, the summit will bring together energy companies, NGOs and technology innovators. It will serve as a knowledge-sharing platform dedicated to reducing methane emissions from the energy sector. The discussion will largely be focused on exploring cutting-edge solutions and best practices for measuring, monitoring, and reducing methane emissions in the oil and gas sector. India has not signed the Global Methane Pledge, primarily due to concern over the shift in focus from CO2 – which has a lifespan of around 100 years – to Methane – which has a lifespan of 12 years. India's major sources of methane emissions are the livestock sector through enteric fermentation and agriculture through paddy cultivation. These sources are linked to the subsistence activities of small and marginal farmers. Implementing the GMP could negatively impact farmers' incomes, rice production, and India's significant role in global rice exports. Also, these emissions in India are considered 'survival emissions' – essential for food security – not 'luxury emissions', unlike in developed nations where agriculture is industrialised. To reduce methane emissions, no additional burden can be imposed on the small farmers who are already economically marginalised. Nonetheless, India has undertaken measures to reduce methane emissions. Under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA), the government is promoting methane-reducing practices in rice cultivation. Methane mitigation initiatives such as the system for rice intensification, direct seeded rice, and the crop diversification programme are being implemented. Also, to reduce methane production in livestock initiatives such as breed improvement and balanced rationing, have been taken by The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), through the National Livestock Mission. Programmes like GOBAR-Dhan and the National Biogas and Organic Manure Programme incentivise the use of cattle waste for biogas production and organic manure, promoting clean energy and lowering greenhouse gas emissions in rural areas. Methane is responsible for around 30% of global warming. If left unaddressed, global methane emissions caused by human activities are expected to increase by as much as 13% between 2020 and 2030. Reducing methane emissions is the most important climate step the world can take. However, it is easier said than done, especially for a developing country like India, where methane emissions are related to food security. To tackle the situation, a substantial flow of climate finance from developed to developing countries would enable ambitious climate action, including slashing methane emissions. Additionally, crop diversification schemes would aid the efforts by encouraging a shift away from monoculture towards a more varied and sustainable agricultural system. Similarly, the energy sector, which also accounts for significant methane emissions, offers some of the most immediate and cost-effective opportunities for methane reduction. Developed countries, having historically been the largest producers and consumers of fossil fuels, are well-positioned to lead reforms. They may choose to incentivise methane reduction in developing countries through climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity building. Moreover, cutting methane emissions from the fossil fuel sector is easier to detect and measure and having relatively few large companies as actors can make the enforcement a lot easier as compared to the agriculture sector, where solutions are linked to livelihoods and food security. The upcoming Methane Mitigation Summit has the potential to accelerate action in the energy sector and success here could set the stage for broader efforts across harder to abate sectors. Post Read Questions Why has reducing methane emission been recognised as one of the most effective and affordable strategies to reduce global warming? Why has India not joined the Global Methane Pledge? Analyse the socio-economic and agricultural factors behind this decision. Discuss measures India has undertaken to reduce methane emissions. How do programmes like GOBAR-Dhan and the National Biogas and Organic Manure Programme contribute to methane mitigation? Evaluate the effectiveness of sector-specific approaches (such as energy and agriculture) in addressing methane emissions. What lessons can be drawn from India's domestic efforts? Analyse the role of international platforms like COP summits in shaping methane mitigation strategies. How effective have these efforts been in addressing methane emission? (Renuka is a Doctoral researcher at Himachal Pradesh National law university, Shimla.) Share your thoughts and ideas on UPSC Special articles with Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – IndianExpress UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X.
New Indian Express
4 days ago
- Science
- New Indian Express
CM Pinarayi Vijayan convenes expert panel to address shipwreck impact
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In light of the potential environmental and marine life impacts from the MSC Elsa 3 shipwreck, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan convened a high-level meeting with national and international experts to discuss mitigation strategies. The participants included Dr Muralee Thummarukudy, Operations Manager, Crisis Management Branch, United Nations Environment Programme, Dr Olof Linden, former professor at the World Maritime University, Shanthakumar, environmental impact economics expert, Dr Babu Pillai, petroleum chemical analyst, and Mike Cowing, expert in coastal cleanup and waste management. The meeting also reviewed the preparedness of various state agencies. Rapid response teams have been deployed under the Pollution Control Board to tackle potential oil spills. It was recommended that oil booms and containment gear be pre-positioned at all major estuaries. Efforts to remove plastic particles are under way with volunteers stationed every 100 m along the coast. Drone surveillance is also being used to monitor debris. Personnel from the Police, Fire and Pollution Control Board have been tasked with coordinating these efforts, while safety guidelines for volunteers have been issued. Supervisors will ensure no unsafe actions are taken.
Muscat Daily
5 days ago
- Health
- Muscat Daily
Oman national strategy to tackle hazardous chemicals unveiled
Muscat – A national strategy was launched on Wednesday to ensure safe and integrated management of hazardous chemicals, marking a significant step towards achieving sustainable development goals under Oman Vision 2040. The strategy was unveiled at an international workshop – Safe Management of Hazardous Chemicals – held in Muscat organised by Environment Authority (EA) in cooperation with the United Nations Environment Programme and Global Environment Facility. The two-day event was inaugurated by Sayyid Saud bin Hilal al Busaidi, Governor of Muscat. 'The national strategy aims to promote the sound management of chemicals at all stages by effectively utilising global practices, the results of studies and research, and supporting the efforts of the international community to control the circulation of chemicals,' said Mohammed bin Majid al Kasbi, Director of Chemicals and Waste Management Department at EA. He said the strategy is designed to balance economic growth, social welfare and environmental protection – the three pillars of sustainable development. The strategy outlines a framework for managing chemicals throughout their lifecycle, from production and handling to transport, storage, processing and disposal. It also addresses environmental and health risks associated with pollution and emissions to protect both people and ecosystems. Beyond regulation, the strategy focuses on building national capacity, enhancing emergency preparedness and strengthening international cooperation. It calls for a unified chemical management system backed by clear policies, legal instruments and enforcement mechanisms. The workshop has brought together experts from various sectors to explore chemical safety as a core component of environmental sustainability. A total of 18 working papers will be presented, covering areas such as mercury management, hazardous waste treatment technologies, the link between plastics and persistent organic pollutants, and the role of customs in monitoring chemical imports. Participants will also review emergency response protocols and the environmental impact of mercury use in agriculture. Dr Mohammed bin Saif al Kalbani, Director General of Environmental Affairs at EA, said the event aligns with ongoing efforts to foster collaboration among public and private sectors and international partners. 'This workshop complements the efforts of the authority in promoting and developing the sound management of hazardous chemicals through the exchange of expertise between relevant entities in the public and private sectors, as well as the international community, to preserve human health and the environment,' Kalbani said. He added that the sultanate has launched the Comprehensive Initial Assessment Report on Mercury and its Compounds in Oman after joining the Minamata Convention, a global agreement to reduce mercury pollution. The report tracks mercury across its lifecycle and helps the country meet international obligations.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Researchers make disturbing discovery inside seabirds' stomachs after coastal survey: 'What's been seen can't be unseen'
A researcher has offered up her harrowing experience while studying the impacts of plastic pollution on birds in Australia — perhaps to some political effect. Lord Howe Island, off the East coast of the Australian mainland, offers a world-renowned sanctuary known for its unique ecosystem and its rich biodiversity. The region boasts the planet's southernmost coral reef and a range of flora and fauna, including endemic and threatened species. The island is also home to a variety of bird species, including shearwaters — the focus of a mid-May report from Australia's ABC News. Shearwaters, or mutton birds, are known for undertaking extensive migrations, with some traveling thousands of miles between breeding grounds and other areas. Conservation biologist Jennifer Provencher told Radio Free Asia in April that due to their wide-ranging travels, the birds "have an incredible exposure to plastics for their entire lifecycle." Researcher Jen Lavers has studied mutton birds for some time and has uncovered a related and alarming trend. In recent years, she told ABC, shearwaters and other sea birds appear to be consuming exorbitant amounts of plastic. Not only is this detrimental to the species' overall health, but it is also a clear indicator of a global problem. Talking with ABC News, Lavers detailed the volume of plastic waste that is ending up inside the stomachs of birds — and the disturbing noises it can make. "To witness it firsthand, it is incredibly visceral," she explained. "There is now so much plastic inside the birds you can feel it on the outside of the animal when it is still alive. As you press on its belly … you hear the pieces grinding against each other." Upon her first visit to Lord Howe Island in 2008, Lavers told ABC, she estimated that around 75% of birds carried around five to 10 pieces of plastic in their stomachs. That figure then ballooned to each bird on the island holding 50-plus pieces. In 2024, a bird with 403 pieces of internal plastic was discovered. Now, Lavers has recently reported that they've found an "80-day-old seabird chick" with 778 plastic pieces inside. Previously, Lavers was a co-author on a paper describing "plasticosis" — a brand-new and damaging disease of plastic-caused scar tissue present in seabirds' bodies. It points to a problem that goes beyond Australian waters. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the "equivalent of 2,000 garbage trucks full of plastic are dumped into the world's oceans, rivers, and lakes" every day. Do you think America has a plastic waste problem? Definitely Only in some areas Not really I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Plastic pollution is not only ingested by wildlife, but it can also lead to animal entanglements and the leaching of harmful chemicals into soil and water systems, which can jeopardize habitats and, ultimately, human health. Peter Whish-Wilson — an Australian Greens senator and a friend of Lavers — partnered with the researcher in an attempt to spotlight the importance of reducing our reliance on plastics. A member of the country's left-wing eco-focused party, Whish-Wilson spoke with ABC News about his experience witnessing plastic waste's impacts on the local bird population up close. "What's been seen can't be unseen," Whish-Wilson said. "I wish every politician and every decision maker in parliaments around the world … could all experience what I experienced … then they'll get it," he added. Around the globe, governments have begun to take action against plastic waste. Many bills have been enacted to reduce single-use plastics and promote recycling or reuse. Plastic bag taxes and the establishment of manufacturer responsibilities have also been put in place in an effort to phase out plastic usage. But Whish-Wilson told ABC that not enough policies have taken the start of the supply chain seriously: "What we need to do is focus on the front of the pipe, the producers of this plastic. Packaging is the biggest cause of plastic pollution on the planet, and in the ocean, and I saw it in the stomach of all these poor seabirds." In addition to supporting pro-environment policies that really work, individuals can make choices to reduce their own use of plastic at home. Reducing purchases that come wrapped in plastic, bringing a reusable mug to cafés, and using your own glass or stainless steel containers to tote away takeout can make a difference — especially when friends, families, and whole communities get together to inspire mass adoption of these practices. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Daily Express
24-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Certification tool for industry players
Published on: Saturday, May 24, 2025 Published on: Sat, May 24, 2025 Text Size: 'Today, GreenRE's reach spans various sectors — from financial institutions and industrial players to healthcare providers, retail chains and global names like the Marriott Group, Caltex, and Shell — and of course, the property development industry,' Ir Ho said. REAL Estate and Housing Developers' Association (Rehda) Malaysia Chairman Datuk Ir Ho Hon Sang said GreenRE formed in 2013 is a homegrown certification tool by the industry for the industry and aimed to promote sustainability in the property sector. The goal was to create a system that is credible, practical, and accessible for developers at every level — a tool that would support the collective journey towards sustainability. 'The importance of this cannot be overstated. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the building and construction sector contributes nearly 37pc of global energy-related carbon emissions. In Malaysia, this number stands at an estimated 40pc, mainly driven by fossil fuel-based power generation. 'This is why the work GreenRE does is so vital. It goes beyond ticking compliance boxes — it is about transforming how we think about design, construction, and long-term environmental responsibility. 'Today, GreenRE's reach spans various sectors — from financial institutions and industrial players to healthcare providers, retail chains and global names like the Marriott Group, Caltex, and Shell — and of course, the property development industry,' he said. On the MoU signing between Shareda and GreenRE, Ho said he believed this MoU will deepen their collaboration further — not only in their mission to deliver quality homes and infrastructure, but to do so in a more holistic and environmentally responsible manner. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
