US climate envoy plans summit with China on methane and polluting gases

09 Sep 2024 CW Team

US climate envoy John Podesta announced that progress was being made toward organizing a summit with China to address the reduction of methane and other highly polluting non-CO2 gases. Podesta reported that discussions with his Chinese counterpart, Liu Zhenmin, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing were "excellent."

Although Podesta acknowledged "some differences," he indicated that both sides had made plans to hold a summit focusing on non-CO2 gases, including methane, N2O, and hydrofluorocarbons. He emphasised that these gases, though receiving less attention, constitute a significant portion of what contributes to global warming.

China, the largest emitter of greenhouse gases that drive climate change, including methane, is followed by the United States in emission levels. Climate discussions often concentrate on reducing CO2, the most dangerous greenhouse gas. However, due to its potent effect and relatively short atmospheric lifespan, methane is a crucial target for countries aiming to quickly cut emissions and mitigate climate change.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that methane emissions from the fossil fuel industry have increased for three consecutive years, reaching near-record highs in 2023. The United States has previously expressed a desire to convene a summit with China on these gases at the upcoming United Nations COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan in November.

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