Methane emissions from fossil fuel operations remain worryingly high, the IEA has warned, even as data collection and monitoring tools improve.
Their report Global Methane Tracker 2025, reveals emissions are still topping 120 million tonnes a year, with record levels of oil, gas and coal output and poor mitigation holding back progress.
Tackling methane leaks and flaring offers a double dividend: it alleviates pressure on tight gas markets in many parts of the world enhancing energy security – and lowers emissions at the same time.
“However, the latest data indicates that implementation on methane has continued to fall short of ambitions.”
Fatih Birol, IEA
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas with a huge near-term impact on global warming. The Tracker notes that addressing methane offers one of the fastest, cheapest ways to curb climate risks.
The IEA estimates that around 70% of emissions from the energy sector could be eliminated with existing technology, and much of that would pay for itself quickly as captured gas can be sold.
Leaks from disused wells and coal mines alone released 8 million tonnes of methane in 2024 – enough to rank them as the fourth-largest fossil fuel methane source globally.
Satellite monitoring is also ramping up.
There are now more than 25 satellites scanning for leaks and they spotted a record number of large methane plumes from oil and gas operations last year.
Still, the IEA says only around 5% of global oil and gas output meets near-zero methane standards, despite pledges covering 80% of production.
The emissions intensity gap between companies is vast – with the worst polluters emitting up to 100 times more methane than the best. Spreading best practice is key, the report stresses.
Abatement could also boost energy security says the IEA.
In 2024, methane capture could have added 100 billion cubic metres of gas to global markets – equivalent to Norway’s total exports.
Another 150 billion cubic metres is still flared each year, mostly avoidably.
Tackling this could help shave 0.1 °C off global warming by 2050.
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