UNEP Study Highlights Methane's Role in Global Warming
A recent study by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) has underscored the significant impact of methane emissions on global warming. Methane, which is 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period, is responsible for approximately 30% of global warming since pre-industrial times. UNEP's satellite monitoring has identified major methane sources, including landfills, oil and gas fields, and coal mines. The largest emitter is a landfill near Santiago, Chile, releasing over 100,000 metric tons of methane annually. The U.S. also ranks among the top offenders, with a coal mine venting shaft in West Virginia listed as the 46th largest source globally. Source time: 2026-05-11T03:04:00+00:00.