Pathways to Global Methane Mitigation: Regional and Sectoral Supply-Side Solutions

In 2021, the US and EU launched the Global Methane Pledge aiming to reduce emissions by 30% below 2020 levels by 2030 (about 2,985 MtCO ₂ e). Since its launch, 160 countries have joined the initiative. With less than five years remaining to achieve this target—and despite evolving political landscapes and shifting national priorities—identifying cost-effective mitigation strategies remains critically important. Given the considerable variation in methane abatement potential and costs across countries and sectors, a disaggregated global assessment is essential. This study focuses on direct methane abatement activities as a key component of the mitigation portfolio. Results indicate that 73% of the Pledge (about 2,400 MtCO ₂ e) can be achieved through technological interventions costing less than 100$/tCO ₂ e by 2030, with the energy sector offering the largest potential. These findings underscore the feasibility of targeted technological action and highlight the regional differences in abatement potential that shape progress toward global methane reduction goals within the remaining timeframe.