Empowering global methane policy through science: actionable data from the International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) methane science studies

Accurate and measurement-based methane data is urgently needed by countries to support science-based policy for the achievement of their methane reduction ambitions. The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP)’s International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) is responding to this need by collecting and integrating diverse methane emissions data streams, one of which is data from Methane Science Studies funded by IMEO.   IMEO’s Methane Science Studies (MSS) are making a difference through funding methane measurement studies and collaborating with scientists worldwide. The overarching aim of the MSS is to close the knowledge gaps and improve the understanding of the locations and magnitude of methane emissions across sectors, especially in regions where there is limited or no publicly available data. The studies have initially focused on the oil and gas sector but are now branching out into other anthropogenic sectors. By Jan 2024, IMEO has launched 35 studies around the world with 32 academic/research institutions and 22 peer-reviewed papers published so far. In Europe alone, IMEO has initiated 8 studies in countries including Romania, Poland, Germany, France, Netherlands, Norway, and the UK.  In this presentation, we will provide an overview of i) the current scope of IMEO Methane Science Studies ii) key study achievements and findings of the completed studies, and iii) potential opportunities and resources for interested research institutes.