Curbing methane is the fastest way to slow warming – but we’re off the pace

Climate Change News

by Megan Rowling

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Curbing methane emissions is one of the most effective ways to slow global warming, yet progress toward reducing these potent greenhouse gases has fallen short. The Global Methane Pledge, established four years ago with a goal of cutting methane emissions by 30% by 2030, highlights both achievements and lingering gaps in implementation. While nations have increased their mitigation ambitions under national plans, the combined efforts still fall short of the target, raising concerns about whether governments will act swiftly enough to achieve the necessary reductions. The latest data reveals a mixed picture: methane emissions rose slightly between 2020 and 2025 but at a slower pace than previously projected. Factors like reduced gas flaring in certain regions and lower-than-expected waste emissions have contributed to this slowdown. While these trends signal progress, they are insufficient to meet the pledge’s 30% reduction goal. However, if countries fully implement their current Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Methane Action Plans, global methane emissions could decrease by 8% between 2020 and 2030—a significant step toward reversing the upward trend. The energy sector offers the greatest potential for methane reduction, accounting for about 70% of the technical feasible reductions. Proven solutions include improving gas recovery in oil production, enhancing leak detection, and deploying oxidation technologies in coal mines. Many of these measures are cost-effective or even profitable, yet only a third of their potential has been realized so far. This highlights the critical need for stronger policy enforcement and faster action to close the gap between current efforts and what is technically possible. Opportunities also exist in agriculture and waste management. For example, rice farming practices can be optimized to reduce emissions, while advancements in waste management have already curbed expected increases in methane from this sector. However, challenges remain, particularly with livestock emissions, where short-term gains are limited and dietary trends may offset progress. Addressing these issues requires a combination of technological innovation, sustainable practices, and robust policy frameworks. The stakes are high: methane’s rapid warming effect makes it a top priority for climate action. Reducing its排放 could slow global warming significantly while providing an affordable pathway to achieving climate goals. The scientific consensus is clear—solutions exist, but without swift implementation, the world risks missing out on this critical opportunity to curb emissions and mitigate

Verticals

climateenvironment

Originally published on Climate Change News on 2/26/2026