In a momentous decision, the European Parliament unveiled its position on a groundbreaking law aimed at curbing methane emissions across various sectors, including oil, fossil gas, coal, and biomethane. The law, which received an overwhelming 499-73 vote, marks the first-ever EU-wide legislation specifically mandating reductions in methane emissions.
Recognizing the pressing need for immediate action, the swift reduction of methane emissions is widely regarded as one of the most effective near-term measures in advancing the global climate objective of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C. Methane, a highly potent greenhouse gas emitted from activities like agriculture, fossil fuel production and transport, coal mining, and landfills, possesses up to 80 times the warming potential of carbon dioxide (CO2). However, due to its relatively shorter lifespan in the atmosphere (10-12 years compared to 50-100 years for CO2), taking timely steps to cut methane emissions can have a significant climate impact in the coming years.
The new legislation forms a crucial part of the European Commission’s ambitious “Fit for 55” roadmap, designed to achieve a substantial 55% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030, relative to 1990 levels. Building on the Commission’s legislative proposals put forth in December 2021, which included requirements for measuring, reporting, and verifying methane emissions in the oil, gas, and coal sectors, as well as rules for leak detection, repair, and limitations on venting and flaring, the newly adopted law reinforces the EU’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Additionally, monitoring tools are proposed to ensure clear visibility of methane emissions from imported oil, gas, and coal.
As a founding signatory to the Global Methane Pledge, an international initiative aimed at reducing global methane emissions by at least 30% by 2030 compared to 2020 levels, the EU demonstrates its determination to drive comprehensive change in this critical area.
In addition to calling upon the European Commission to propose binding EU-wide methane emissions reduction targets for 2030 and urging member states to establish national reduction targets, the Parliament’s position goes beyond the Commission’s proposal by advocating for more stringent measures on methane leak detection and repair. This entails more frequent leak and detection surveys and stronger repair obligations.
The proposed regulations also encompass bans on venting and flaring methane from drainage stations by 2025 and ventilation shafts by 2027. Furthermore, the Parliament’s position stipulates that importers of coal, oil, and gas must demonstrate compliance with the regulation’s requirements, with exemptions provided for imports from countries with similar rules.
This adopted position will serve as a guiding force in the Parliament’s negotiations with the EU Council, shaping the final text of the new legislation. The European Parliament’s resolute action reflects its commitment to combatting methane emissions and striving for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
