U.S., EU Methane Pledge Cements Key Role for Methane on Climate Agenda

(NEW YORK) President Joe Biden announced today the United States and European Union have launched a global pledge to cut methane pollution 30% by 2030 as a key part of their strategy to reach the climate goals spelled out in the Paris Climate Agreement. The new Global Methane Pledge is central to diplomatic efforts for achieving international cooperation on methane before November’s U.N. Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, Scotland (COP 26).

“Cutting methane pollution is the single fastest, most effective strategy we have to slow the rate of warming. The benefits will be almost immediate. World leaders behind this pledge are opening up a crucial new opportunity to protect our climate and millions of people whose wellbeing depends on it.

“The pledge represents an important test for countries heading into the November climate talks in Glasgow. A 30% reduction in methane pollution is the entry point for this critical conversation. Many countries can and should aim even higher. 

“What matters now is action. Years of research by EDF and others confirms the technical feasibility of rapid reductions in key sectors such as oil and gas. We need real reductions fast and no later than 2025 to push the climate benefits that can be achieved in 2030.”  

• Fred Krupp, President, Environmental Defense Fund

Methane pollution from agriculture, fossil fuels and waste account for more than a quarter of today’s climate warming. Growing concern over the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events worldwide due to rising temperatures has brought acute focus on climate-forcers like methane.