India’s methane emissions from coal mining are set to double – but it can be put to good use

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Independent or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Methane emissions from India's coal mines are projected to more than double by 2029, potentially surpassing 1.6 million tonnes annually
• However, capturing this methane could reduce emissions and save India up to £741 million per year by replacing imported gas. New technologies can turn this harmful gas into a valuable energy source

🔭 The context: Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, trapping 80 times more heat than carbon dioxide
• India, the world's third-largest methane emitter, is expanding coal mining despite its environmental risks. The country has yet to join global initiatives like the Global Methane Pledge

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Capturing methane from coal mines could significantly cut India’s greenhouse gas emissions, helping slow climate change and reduce air pollution, while also improving coal mine safety

⏭️ What's next: India could reduce methane emissions from coal mines by up to 35% by 2030, leveraging advanced technologies to capture and reuse methane, and potentially decreasing its reliance on foreign gas imports

💬 One quote: “This is the low-hanging opportunity we have to slow climate change, reduce surface ozone, and complement efforts to cut carbon dioxide.” — Rajasekhar Modadugu, Ember climate and energy analyst

📈 One stat: Methane emissions from India's coal mines are projected to exceed 1.6 million tonnes annually by 2029

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