Methane Emissions from U.S. Landfills: A Climate Change Opportunity
Aerial Surveys Reveal Alarming Methane Emissions
By Valerie Volcovici
According to a recent study published in the journal Science, more than half of U.S. landfills observed through aerial surveys are significant sources of methane emissions. This study sheds light on the urgent need to address methane emissions from landfills, which rank as the third-largest source of methane in the United States.
Landfills: A Key Target for Climate Action
The research, led by Carbon Mapper in collaboration with NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory and other institutions, highlights the opportunity to mitigate climate change by tackling methane emissions from landfills more aggressively. With 52% of landfills displaying observable methane emission points, there is a clear chance to target a potent greenhouse gas that often goes unnoticed.
The Impact of Methane Emissions
Super-emitting sources, defined as those emitting over 100 kilograms of methane per hour, are prevalent in landfills, with 60% of large emitting sites showing persistent methane leaks. This contrasts with the oil and gas sector, where super-emitting sites typically experience short-duration events. This data underscores the importance of addressing methane leaks from landfills to curb their significant climate impact.
Regulatory Focus on Methane Emissions
While regulations and programs have predominantly targeted methane emissions from the oil and gas industry, the study emphasizes the need to shift focus towards landfills. Aerial and satellite surveys provide a more comprehensive understanding of methane emissions, enabling regulators to take targeted action and reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions effectively.
Challenges in Estimating Methane Emissions
Historically, estimating landfill emissions has relied on model-based assessments and handheld methane sensors. However, these methods often underestimate the scale of methane leaks, with aerial surveys revealing emission rates 1.4 times higher than previous estimates. This discrepancy highlights the need for more accurate monitoring and regulation of methane emissions from landfills.
The Urgency of Addressing Methane Emissions
In 2021, methane emissions accounted for 12% of all U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Tackling methane leaks from landfills presents a crucial opportunity to mitigate climate change and achieve significant environmental benefits. By targeting super-emitting sources and implementing effective mitigation strategies, we can make a substantial impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
