Promoters claim natural gas is better than burning coal, because emissions are lower. They say this is a critical factor in terms of the campaign to mitigate global warming, while we develop long term solutions. However, Green Tech Media suggests this benefit is an illusion. Therefore, we urgently need to know the truth about natural gas emissions.
The Methane-Emitting Truth about Natural Gas
Green Tech Media warned us about this on June 28, 2018. They suggested methane gas leaks in U.S. gas and oil operations are sixty percent higher than government expectations. This puts them on a level with warming by coal since 2015. Could this be true? Durango Herald called for Colorado to adopt higher standards on November 10, 2019.
Environmental Defense Fund explains the gas leaks are in the distribution system. Apparently these are an ongoing challenge. Gas companies do their best. However, some minor leaks can take months to fix. Leaked natural gas – mainly methane – is a potent greenhouse gas and hence contributes to global warming. The real truth about natural gas emissions is some of these leaks may never be fixed.
Why the Leaks Continue and The Effect on People
Environmental Defense Fund explains gas companies need permission to raise rates, to cover the cost of these repairs. However, politically-sensitive approvals are often slow to come through. Therefore, it is possible some benefits of natural gas may be an illusion. If this is the case, what does this mean for our health?
San Miguel County Commissioner Lance Waring says “Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas that is 84 times more potent than carbon-dioxide. And it is responsible for 25% of the climate change we’re seeing today.” Methane contributes to asthma attacks and worsens breathing problems especially in small children.
Moreover it decreases snow pack, causing more rapid spring runoff, and longer, more intensive wildfire seasons. If this is the real truth about natural gas emissions, then once again we are guilty of climate change.
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Preview Image: Global Natural Gas Trade, 2013
