IEA says energy-sector methane emissions stayed near record levels in 2025

Why does the IEA say methane cuts matter for energy supply?

The agency said reducing leaks and other avoidable methane releases could make about 200 billion cubic metres of natural gas available annually, with nearly 15 billion cubic metres potentially available quickly in some cases Guardian,Terra Daily,Straits Times.

How large is methane's climate impact, according to the sources?

Several reports describe methane as the second-biggest contributor to climate change after carbon dioxide, and note that although it remains in the atmosphere for less time than CO2, it has a much stronger warming effect over a 20-year period CNA,CNA,Le Telegramme.

What remains unresolved after this report?

The IEA said there is still no global sign of declining energy-related methane emissions in 2025, even as officials are calling for faster action; the next question is whether countries and companies will implement the abatement measures discussed at the Paris meeting and ahead of COP31 Franceinfo,Boursorama,CNA.