ASEAN is not starting from scratch in tackling methane emissions.
When it comes to climate change, it's important to consider not just carbon dioxide (CO2), but also the significant impact of methane (CH4).
Methane is approximately 84 times more effective than CO2 at warming the atmosphere during the first 20 years after its release.
According to the 8th ASEAN Energy Outlook, ASEAN’s energy demand is projected to nearly triple from 2022 levels, reaching 1,108 million tons of oil equivalent (Mtoe) in 2050. The report also projects energy-related emissions to reach 5,127 million tons of CO2, with methane accounting for 15.7% of about 1,100 million tons of CO2 equivalent.
In the ASEAN energy sector, methane emissions are led by oil and gas at 56%, followed by coal at 44%. Looking more closely at the oil and gas value chain, methane is released at multiple points in upstream, midstream, and downstream, with the upstream being the largest contributor due to energy demand and potential leaks.
These emissions come from vented sources at 64.57%, followed by fugitive at 26.30%, and flared at 9.13%. Due to methane’s significant short-term warming potential, urgent reductions in methane emissions from oil and gas should be a key element of the region’s climate strategy.
This Op Ed is published on ESG Business. Click here to read the full article.
