REM: Methane emissions from the energy sector increased in 2023

The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that in 2023, nearly 120mn tonnes of methane emissions stemmed from the production and utilisation of fossil fuels, slightly higher than in 2022.

"Emissions from fossil fuel operations remain unacceptably high," IEA chief energy economist Tim Gould told Reuters.

Another 10mn tonnes originated from bioenergy, mainly from traditional biomass use.

Emissions may have plateaued since 2019, a year that saw record highs. But overall methane emissions still rose in 2023 despite climate pledges.

Methane emissions are shorter-lived in the atmosphere than CO2, but are many times more potent as a climate-change gas.

The most recent IEA Global Methane Tracker uses the latest methane emissions data from the energy sector, integrating new scientific research, measurement efforts and satellite observations.

This data reveals both positive advancements and concerning trends. While more governments and fossil fuel firms pledge to combat methane, efforts to report emissions consistently and transparently are strengthening globally.