IEA: 70% of Methane Emissions from Fossil Fuels Can Be Cut with Existing Technologies
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has reported that approximately 70% of methane emissions from fossil fuel operations could be eliminated using existing technologies. This finding is part of the IEA's Global Methane Tracker 2026, which highlights the persistent high levels of methane emissions from oil, gas, and coal production, totaling 124 million tonnes annually as of 2025.
The report specifies that the oil and gas sector alone could avoid about 75% of its emissions with current equipment and operational techniques. Furthermore, more than 35 million tonnes of methane emissions could be reduced at no net cost, given the value of the captured gas exceeds abatement costs based on average energy prices in 2025.
The IEA emphasizes that implementing established policies, such as limits on flaring and venting, leak detection and repair (LDAR), and technology standards, could cut oil and gas methane emissions by over 50% globally. More advanced measures, including emissions pricing and performance standards, could see reductions exceeding 75%.
Additionally, the IEA notes an improvement in the upstream methane intensity of oil and gas operations, which has declined by about 10% since 2019, although there is significant variation across different countries.
Addressing methane leaks could also release 200 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, bolstering energy security without the need for new supply, according to the IEA.