The UN Environment Programme’s International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) has announced a major expansion of its global methane detection system, enabling satellites to track emissions from coal mines and waste facilities for the first time. The announcement was made at a high‑level methane event in Paris under France’s G7 Presidency, following UNEP’s analysis of the world’s top 50 methane sources, many of which come from coal and waste.
Alongside this expansion, new commitments were made by national oil companies in Angola, Libya, and Pakistan to join UNEP’s Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0). Their participation brings the framework close to covering half of global oil and gas production, advancing independently verified methane measurement at the asset level.
To ensure detected emissions lead to real‑world fixes, IMEO and the International Energy Agency (IEA) released a new MARS Response Blueprint. This playbook provides governments with step‑by‑step guidance on verifying emissions, mobilizing operators, and tracking mitigation, supported by technical assistance to turn alerts into measurable cuts.
UNEP also launched its Coal Methane Database, offering unprecedented mine‑level transparency. Covering nearly 250 coal mines and more than half of global metallurgical coal production, the database integrates satellite observations, scientific research, and official inventories. It provides regulators, operators, and investors with actionable data to cut emissions and strengthen accountability.
French Minister Monique Barbut emphasized that placing methane at the heart of the G7 agenda reflects the urgency of acting where the fastest and most cost‑effective environmental gains are possible. She noted that reducing methane emissions not only curbs global warming but also strengthens energy security.
Together, these initiatives mark a decisive step toward ending “invisible” methane emissions, moving from detection to action, and accelerating global efforts to meet climate goals.
