European Parliament approves delay for methane emission monitoring

The European Parliament has voted to postpone mandatory monitoring and reporting obligations for methane emissions from fossil fuels until 2031. This decision represents a three-year delay from the original schedule.

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas with a significantly higher global warming potential than CO2 in the short term. Precise measurement across the extraction, transport, and distribution chains is considered essential for effective emission reduction strategies. The delay has sparked criticism from environmental organizations, highlighting the ongoing tension between European energy security concerns and the climate objectives established under the Green Deal.