Key facts
- Turkmenistan has started plugging methane mega-leaks from its aging oil and gas facilities.
- Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, trapping 80 times more heat than carbon dioxide.
- The country has so far stopped eight leaks by repairing corroded pipes, faulty wells, and failing flares.
- The UN Methane Alert and Response System (Mars) has been sending alerts to Turkmenistan.
- Turkmenistan has responded to about 20% of these alerts, a higher rate than the US.
- The UN described the repairs as an 'incredible first step' but emphasized that more work is needed.
Turkmenistan has begun addressing the significant methane leaks emanating from its aging oil and gas infrastructure, a development lauded as a breakthrough by the United Nations. Methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, contributes substantially to global heating, and experts consider its rapid reduction a critical climate action.
The Guardian's previous reporting highlighted Turkmenistan as a major source of these methane "super-emitter" leaks, prompting engagement with international partners. The country has now successfully plugged eight leaks by repairing corroded pipes, faulty wells, and malfunctioning flares. While the UN acknowledges this as an 'incredible first step,' it stresses that substantial further action is required.
The UN Methane Alert and Response System (Mars) has issued numerous alerts to Turkmenistan, which has responded to a notable percentage, providing information and plans for mitigation. This contrasts with the United States, which received a high number of alerts but took no action. Mexico, despite having the world's worst detected leak, is also working on repairs with a high response rate.
Experts emphasize that stemming methane emissions from oil and gas operations is the most immediate and cost-effective way to reduce climate pollution. The success in Turkmenistan demonstrates the efficacy of using satellite data to identify leaks and drive mitigation actions, though scaling up these efforts and securing funding for more complex repairs remain challenges.