Understanding and reducing methane emissions: insights into anthropogenic, natural sources, and novel mitigation techniques

Methane (CH 4 ) is a potent, short-lived greenhouse gas. Among the major well-mixed greenhouse gases, it ranks second only to carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) in its contribution to anthropogenic radiative forcing. Although methane remains in the atmosphere for approximately 12 years, its 100-year global warming potential (GWP100) is approximately 27–30 times greater than that of CO 2 (IPCC AR6), making rapid mitigation a critical near-term climate strategy. This review synthesizes current understanding of methane emissions from anthropogenic and natural sources, evaluates sector-specific mitigation potentials, and critically examines emerging reduction technologies. Fossil fuel extraction, agriculture (particularly enteric fermentation), and waste management collectively account for the majority of anthropogenic methane emissions, with significant variability in mitigation feasibility and cost-effectiveness. Advanced methane monitoring systems, feed additives, biochar applications, leak detection technologies, and microbial interventions show considerable mitigation potential but face technical limitations, high implementation costs, infrastructure barriers, and scalability challenges. We emphasize sectoral prioritization, policy integration, and trade-offs associated with mitigation strategies. Immediate methane reductions offer substantial co-benefits, including improved air quality and public health, while directly supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 13, 7, and 12). Strategic, evidence-based methane mitigation represents one of the most effective pathways to limit near-term warming and accelerate climate stabilization.