Methane is a potent greenhouse gas: about 80 times more powerful in trapping heat than carbon dioxide over 20 years. A short-lived pollutant, methane stays in the atmosphere for only about 10 years compared with centuries for carbon dioxide. Methane abatement is the fastest and most cost-effective strategy to keep the goal of limiting warming to 1.5ºC within reach while supporting the livelihoods of billions. The World Bank Group is helping countries reduce methane emissions while also enabling development gains.
Farmers harvest rice in a field in Chainat province, Thailand, August 31, 2023.
Photo: REUTERS/Athit Perawongmetha
