On Wednesday, European Union lawmakers approved a groundbreaking law aimed at curbing methane emissions from Europe’s oil and gas imports starting in 2030. This move puts pressure on international suppliers to take action against leaks of the potent greenhouse gas.
Methane, a primary component of natural gas, ranks as the second-largest contributor to climate change after carbon dioxide. Immediate reductions in methane emissions are crucial to avoid severe climate consequences in the near term.
Green lawmaker Jutta Paulus, co-lead negotiator for the EU Parliament, hailed the decision as a significant step in combating the “climate killer” methane. She emphasized the law’s role in helping the EU achieve its climate targets and fulfill commitments made under the Global Methane Pledge.
Under the new regulations, set to take effect in 2030, limits will be imposed on “methane intensity values” for producers exporting fossil fuels to the EU. This measure is expected to impact major gas suppliers, including the United States, Algeria, and Russia.
Of note, Russia, formerly Europe’s primary pipeline gas supplier, has seen its deliveries decrease, with Norway emerging as the continent’s largest pipeline gas supplier. Norway’s gas supply boasts some of the world’s lowest methane intensity levels.
The approved law now awaits formal adoption by the European Council before being published in the EU Official Journal. It is set to come into force 20 days after publication.
