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Source-This post on Microbes producing more Methane than fossil fuel- Study is based on the article “Microbes, not fossil fuels, produced most new methane: study” published in “The Hindu” on 1st May 2024.
Why in the News?
A recent study has shown that methane emissions from fossil fuels decreased from 1990 to the 2000s and have remained steady since then. The microbes have now emerged as the main source of methane.
Findings of the study
1. Microbes as the primary source of new methane- The recent study has revealed that microbes are the primary sources of new methane in the atmosphere. Anaerobic archaea has been identified as potential major sources of atmospheric methane.
2. Location of the Methane Releasing Microbes- These microbes (methanogens) thrive in oxygen-deficient environments. They can be found in various settings, which includes the digestive tracts of animals, wetlands, rice paddies, landfills, and the sediments of lakes and oceans.
About Methane Emissions
1. Global Warming Potential of Methane-
a) Methane is the second most abundant anthropogenic greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide (CO₂). However, it has a higher warming potential over shorter periods.
b) Over a century, methane’s global warming potential is 28 times greater than CO₂.
2. Sources of Methane emission: It falls into two main categories:
a) Biogenic Methane: It is produced by microbial action, particularly by methanogens.
b) Thermogenic Methane: It is released during the extraction of fossil fuels (natural gas or oil) from deep within the Earth’s crust.
3. Action to address methane emission: Policymakers have recently focused on addressing methane emissions to combat global warming. The ‘Global Methane Pledge’ was launched at the U.N. climate talks in 2021 to reduce methane emissions.
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
