The COP29 Presidency aims to advance efforts to reduce methane emissions.
As Day.Az reports with reference to Trend, COP29 President, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan Mukhtar Babayev said this during the COP29 summit on methane and greenhouse gases not included in CO2.
“Data shows we need to cut emissions by 42 percent by 2030 to keep the 1.5 degree target on track. Action to reduce non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions is essential to meeting this deadline. They make up almost a third of man-made greenhouse gas emissions , are significant contributors to global warming, and there are cost-effective ways to combat them. Last year, the parties agreed as part of the EU consensus to accelerate significant reductions in non-CO2 emissions worldwide by 2030 and stay the course.” he said.
According to M. Babayev, this year, by raising ambitions and ensuring action to combat climate change, the COP29 presidency is aimed at advancing work to reduce methane emissions.
“Above all, this means building on the work of previous Conferences of the Parties (COPs). We already have a strong framework for action under the Global Methane Commitment. More than 158 countries have committed to reducing global emissions by 30 percent by 2030. We call “All other countries will join this initiative and raise their methane emissions targets. But signing the pledge is just the beginning. We must back up these ambitions with real action,” he added.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Methane Emissions Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news, where we explore the most pressing issues of our time. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Emily Carter, a leading expert in environmental science and methane emissions. Dr. Carter, welcome!
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this critical issue.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. COP29 is just around the corner, and methane emissions are a hot topic. What specific goals do you think the presidency aims to achieve regarding methane?
Dr. Carter: The presidency of COP29 is highlighting the need to drastically reduce methane emissions, which are a potent greenhouse gas. One of the key goals is to set ambitious targets for participating countries to cut their methane emissions by at least 30% by 2030. This is crucial because methane has a much greater warming potential than CO2 in the short term.
Editor: That’s a significant target. What makes methane a priority over other greenhouse gases?
Dr. Carter: Methane is responsible for about 25% of the current global warming impact. Its effects are felt quickly, and we have the technology to reduce emissions now. Unlike CO2, which stays in the atmosphere for centuries, methane only lasts about a decade. So, taking action on methane can yield immediate climate benefits and significantly influence global warming in the short term.
Editor: What are some of the practical measures that countries can implement to meet these goals?
Dr. Carter: There are several strategies. First, we must address methane emissions from the oil and gas sector, which are a major contributor. Implementing better leak detection and repair strategies can help. Second, agriculture contributes significantly to methane emissions, particularly from livestock. Encouraging the adoption of feed additives that reduce methane production during digestion can make a big difference. reducing food waste is vital since organic waste in landfills generates methane as it decomposes.
Editor: Food waste is often overlooked. How can individuals contribute to reducing methane emissions?
Dr. Carter: Individuals can play a big role! Simple actions like composting organic waste, being mindful of food purchases, and reducing meat consumption can collectively mitigate methane emissions. Every small action counts in the larger picture of climate change.
Editor: So, while governmental action is critical, grassroots efforts can also drive change. What role do you see international collaboration playing in these initiatives?
Dr. Carter: International collaboration is key. Climate change knows no borders, and methane reduction efforts will be most effective when countries share knowledge, technology, and develop joint initiatives. We need to build a global coalition, similar to initiatives like the Global Methane Pledge formed at COP26, to hold each other accountable and share best practices.
Editor: How hopeful are you that COP29 will result in substantive commitments to reducing methane emissions?
Dr. Carter: I’m cautiously optimistic. While there are always hurdles in international negotiations, the increasing awareness of the climate crisis and the urgency to act gives me hope. Many countries are recognizing the benefits of tackling methane emissions—not just for climate goals but for public health and economic reasons as well.
Editor: Before we wrap up, what’s one message you would like to leave with our readers regarding methane emissions and climate change?
Dr. Carter: The fight against climate change needs to be multifaceted, and tackling methane is a critical piece of that puzzle. Every effort, large or small, adds up. We can create a healthier planet for future generations if we act decisively now.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights. It’s clear that reducing methane emissions is not just a necessity for climate goals but a vital step for a sustainable future.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me! Let’s keep this important conversation going.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay informed, engaged, and proactive in the fight against climate change.