EU launches historic methane regulation to combat climate change

The EU has taken a monumental step in its climate action efforts with the publication of the first-ever regulation aimed at reducing methane emissions. This regulation, now officially part of EU law, represents a significant advancement in the fight against climate change.

Stricter Emission Standards Across the EU and Beyond

Designated as EU 2024/1787, this regulation imposes stringent limits on methane emissions from fossil fuel operations within EU Member States. It also enforces these standards on imports from oil, coal, and natural gas exporters supplying the EU.

Flavia Sollazzo, Senior Director of EU Energy Transition at Environmental Defense Fund Europe (EDF Europe), remarked, "The EU's adoption of the Methane Emissions Regulation is a monumental stride towards mitigating climate change. This ambitious regulation sets comprehensive standards across the entire energy supply chain. As a cornerstone of the EU Green Deal, it reaffirms the EU's dedication to combating climate change and addressing its external methane footprint."

Key to Success: Rigorous Implementation

Sollazzo emphasised the importance of diligent implementation, stating, "The regulation's success depends on rigorous enforcement. The real challenge begins now: holding the industry accountable. We expect Member States to act swiftly by implementing national methane emissions reporting requirements, finalising import standards, and developing extensive monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems."

Helen Spence-Jackson, Executive Director at EDF Europe, added, "With technologies like MethaneSAT, we now have powerful tools for advanced monitoring and tracking. This transparency demands immediate action. Successful implementation requires collaborative efforts across all sectors. Together, we can build a comprehensive understanding of emissions and create effective solutions."

Next Steps for Member States

Within six months of the regulation's enactment, EU Member States must appoint national authorities to oversee compliance by oil, gas, and coal operators, importers, and independent verifiers. The European Commission will introduce secondary legislation detailing the reporting methodology for methane emission intensities.

Extending Obligations to Importers

Starting January 2027, the same MRV obligations will apply to EU importers. They will need to ensure that producers measure, monitor, report, and verify methane emissions according to EU standards for all contracts with exporters.

A Global Call to Action

This regulation is not only a significant move for the EU but also a call for global action. By setting a high standard for methane emissions, the EU aims to inspire a worldwide shift in climate action and slow the pace of global warming.