Relevance: GS-3 (Environment & Climate Change) • Source: UNEP, Indian Express

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) released the Global Methane Status Report 2025, warning that global methane emissions continue to rise despite pledges under the Global Methane Pledge.

What the Report Says (Major Findings)

• Methane emissions at record levels, mainly from fossil fuels, agriculture, and waste.
• Current trajectories may cause 0.3°C additional warming by 2040, undermining Paris Agreement goals.
• Top emitters: China, India, USA, Russia account for over 40% of global methane emissions.
• India’s position: Largest agricultural methane emitter (enteric fermentation, rice cultivation).
• Low-cost solutions (biogas capture, leak detection, waste processing) could cut methane by 30% globally.

Methane (CH₄) as a Greenhouse Gas

• Methane is a short-lived but highly potent greenhouse gas.
• Global warming potential: ~80 times stronger than CO₂ over 20 years.
• Major sources:
  • Agriculture (cattle, paddy fields)
  • Fossil fuel extraction
  • Landfills & waste
• Reducing methane offers quick climate benefits due to its short atmospheric lifetime (~12 years).

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Q. Which of the following are major anthropogenic sources of methane?

1. Rice cultivation
2. Coal mining
3. Landfills
4. Cement manufacturing

Select the correct answer:
A) 1, 2 and 3
B) 1 and 4
C) 2 and 4
D) 1, 2, 3 and 4