THE WORSENING METHANE THREAT FROM GASES

U.S. Methane Emissions 50 Percent Higher Than EPA Estimates

November 26, 2013 (Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences)

“Emissions of methane from fossil fuel extraction and refining activities in the South Central U.S. are nearly five times higher than previous estimates…Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is produced through natural gas production and distribution, cattle farming, landfills, coal mining, manure management and many other anthropogenic and natural sources, though human activities are thought to contribute approximately 60 percent of the total…[Overall] total methane emissions in the U.S. appear to be 1.5 times and 1.7 times higher than the amounts previously estimated…Along with carbon dioxide, methane is one of the most important greenhouse gases in terms of its potential to raise global temperatures. It also encourages the formation of surface ozone in cities and affects other aspects of atmospheric chemistry…” click here for more

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