Why in news?
The Global Methane Status Report 2025, released by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) at COP30.
 
Key highlights of report

• Global methane emissions reached about 352 million tonnes in 2020 and may increase to around 369 million tonnes by 2030 under current policies.
• Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, roughly 80 times more potent than CO₂ over 20 years, responsible for about one-third of current warming.
• Agriculture is the largest methane source (42%), followed by energy (38%) and waste (20%).
• India is the third-largest emitter globally, contributing 9% of methane emissions, mainly from agriculture.
• The Global Methane Pledge (GMP), signed by 159 countries covering 57% of emissions, aims to cut methane emissions 30% by 2030 from 2020 levels.
• Full implementation of mitigation measures in G20+ countries (holding 72% of reduction potential) could prevent over 180,000 premature deaths, reduce crop losses by 19 million tonnes, and deliver economic benefits exceeding $330 billion annually.
• Without stronger methane controls, emissions could rise by 21% by 2050, exacerbating climate change, health risks, and food insecurity.

Way forward

• Enhancing methane emission monitoring, reporting, and verification systems to improve data accuracy and accountability.
• Promoting adoption of best practices and technologies for methane reduction, such as leak detection and repair in oil and gas, improved livestock management, and organic waste diversion.
• Strengthening international cooperation and financing mechanisms to support developing countries in methane mitigation efforts.
• Highlighting co-benefits of methane reduction beyond climate, including significant health improvements, lower crop losses, and economic opportunities.

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