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A new study has found that oil and gas production may be to blame for more methane emissions than previously thought. The study, published in Nature, demonstrates that methane emissions from natural phenomena, such as from the ocean bed or mud volcanoes, are far smaller than estimates used in calculations. These findings, when taken in tandem with the fact that atmospheric methane concentrations have more than doubled since preindustrial times, mean that human fossil-fuel methane emissions may be underestimated by 24 to 40 percent.
The study is consistent with recent research showing that North American gas production resulted in about a third of the global increase in methane emissions in the past decade, as well as a study in 2018 that found methane emissions from oil and gas supply chain could be 60 percent higher than EPA estimates. Investigative journalism has also shown immense quantities of methane escaping from oil and gas infrastructure, even as the Trump administration weakens restrictions.
The new report argues for placing stricter methane emission regulations on the fossil fuel industry, especially as methane is an incredibly potent greenhouse gas with more human origins than thought; meaning that such restrictions may reduce climate change more than previously thought.
Symposium addresses future of conservation
New Mexico Senator Tom Udall and Montana Governor Steve Bullock are expected to speak today at Colorado College's symposium on the future of western conservation. The symposium celebrates the tenth annual Conservation in the West Poll release.
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I am no [human resources] specialist, but it sure appears to be hinky.”
