Study: Global Methane Emissions From Natural Gas Production Higher Than Thought
A recent study published in Science suggests that methane emissions from natural gas production systems worldwide are likely higher than previously thought. The study highlights issues with outdated databases and uncertainties in monitoring systems, rather than blaming specific extraction techniques like fracking.
The study found that about 4% of industry sites had unusually high methane emissions, primarily linked to hatches and vents in natural gas storage tanks at extraction wells. These high emissions are not attributed to fracking, but rather to improper maintenance and age of devices. The research indicates that methane losses from the U.S. upstream gas chain are about 60% higher than officially reported, regardless of the extraction technique used.
The study's authors, whose identities were not immediately available, stress that improper monitoring leads to widespread leaks often going undetected. They suggest that new scientific findings should prompt a global discussion on the quality of emissions reporting systems.
The study in Science underscores the need for improved monitoring and maintenance practices in the natural gas industry worldwide. While it does not single out fracking as a cause for higher methane emissions, it highlights the importance of accurate emissions reporting and proper maintenance of extraction systems. The findings should encourage a balanced discussion about the gas industry's environmental impact and potential solutions.
Read also:
- Catastrophe at a U.S. Steel facility in Pennsylvania results in the loss of two lives. crucial details unveiled
- Auto Industry Updates: Geotab, C2A, Deloitte, NOVOSENSE, Soracom, and Panasonic in Focus
- Liverpool unveils plans for expanding its electric fleet: intends to incorporate 50 new electric buses
- Battle for Corporate Liability in Addressing Climate Damages
