The methane pledge
Methane is more short-lived in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide but 80 times more potent in warming the earth. As a result, cutting emissions of the gas, which is estimated to have accounted for 30 per cent of global warming since pre-industrial times, is one of the most effective ways of slowing climate change.
The Global Methane Pledge, which was first announced in September, now includes half of the top 30 methane emitters, accounting for two-thirds of the global economy, according to the U.S. official.
Among the new signatories to be announced on Tuesday is Brazil — one of the world’s five biggest emitters of methane. Three of the others — China, Russia and India — have not signed up, while Australia has said it will not back the pledge.
US President Joe Biden announced measures seeking to deploy at least five cabinet-level agencies. For instance, the Environmental Protection Agency released a long-awaited proposal stiffening requirements to plug leaks in oil and gas wells.
The Agriculture Department is announcing a program encouraging farmers to harness and sell methane. Pipeline regulators will expand their oversight of natural gas lines.
Alternatives to China’s infra plan
“We have to show and I think we will show that democracy is still the best way for delivering results.”
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