Methane question: It is easier to cut CH4 than CO2

News: In CoP 26 summit, 105 countries have pledged to reduce their methane emissions by 30% from 2020 levels, by 2030. 

IPCC research estimates that 1/4th of global warming is done by CH4 or Methane. Cutting Methane emissions is easier compared to other emissions due to tech solutions. Also, UN’s latest assessment is that over 50% of available targeted measures have negative costs – they quickly end up saving money. 

But it is not yet clear that industrialized meat production system, which globally accounts for 32% of anthropogenic methane emissions, will be a part of reform or not.  

What India should do? 

livestock and paddy cultivation, which accounts for 8% of CH4 emissions, is the main reason behind India not signing the agreement.  India can use technologies that reduce methanogenic activity in bovines and sheep. For example, ICMR has developed a feed supplement that cuts down their methane emissions by 17-20%.  

Further India can also take a lead in the future “green meats” or laboratory meats.  

Source: This post is based on the article “Methane question: It is easier to cut CH4 than CO2” published in the Times of India on 9th November 2021.