Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, it has more than 80 times the warming power of carbon dioxide over the first 20 years after it reaches the atmosphere. Even though CO2 has a longer-lasting effect, methane sets the pace for warming in the near term. At least 25% of today's global warming is driven by methane from human actions.
Reducing methane emissions is crucial for mitigating climate change. Here are some effective ways to help reduce methane in the atmosphere:

Methane Capture and Use: Implement systems to capture methane emissions from various sources, such as landfills, livestock operations, and wastewater treatment plants. This captured methane can be used as an energy source instead of being released into the atmosphere. For example, it can be converted into electricity or used as a fuel for heating and cooking.

Improved Waste Management: Implement better waste management practices to minimize methane emissions from landfills. This includes techniques such as capturing methane from landfill gas and using it for energy generation. Additionally, promoting waste reduction, recycling, and composting can help reduce organic waste that generates methane in landfills.

Sustainable Agriculture: Adopt agricultural practices that reduce methane emissions from livestock and rice cultivation. Livestock emit methane during digestion, so implementing strategies like improved feed quality, dietary modifications, and better manure management can reduce emissions. For rice cultivation, using alternative water management techniques (such as intermittent flooding) can significantly reduce methane emissions from paddy fields.

Natural Gas System Upgrades: Enhance infrastructure and systems for natural gas production, transmission, and distribution to minimize methane leaks. Improved monitoring, maintenance, and repair of pipelines, as well as the use of advanced technologies, can help prevent methane leakage during extraction, storage, and distribution.

Methane from Energy Production: Reduce methane emissions from oil and gas operations, including exploration, extraction, and distribution. Implementing rigorous regulations and monitoring systems, utilizing advanced leak detection technologies, and employing best practices for equipment maintenance can help minimize methane leakage.

Restoration of Wetlands: Protect and restore wetlands, as they can act as natural sinks for methane. Preserving and rehabilitating wetland ecosystems helps maintain their ability to absorb and store methane, thus reducing its release into the atmosphere.

International Cooperation and Policy: Encourage international cooperation and agreements to address methane emissions. Collaborative efforts can include sharing best practices, technology transfer, and supporting developing countries in implementing methane reduction strategies. Governments can also implement policies and regulations that incentivize methane reduction across industries.

It's important to note that a comprehensive approach to climate change mitigation should include reducing both carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane emissions, as they are the two primary greenhouse gases. By combining efforts to reduce methane emissions with strategies to curb CO2 emissions, we can make significant progress in combating climate change.