Creation Covenant Alliance

The Struggle Over This Major Climate Pollutant Holds Significant Future Consequences

Efforts to curb climate super pollutants like methane and greenhouse gases could slow under President-elect Trump.
A panel presents the United Nations Methane Report at the COP29 climate conference on Friday in Baku, Azerbaijan. Credit: Sean Gallup/Getty Images

The “sprint to cut climate super pollutants” may soon decelerate at COP29. Leading climate diplomats from the U.S., China, and Azerbaijan convened in Baku for discussions on reducing methane and other potent greenhouse gases.

Efforts to curb these emissions are under threat as President-elect Donald Trump has indicated plans to exit the Paris climate agreement. The oil industry is urging Trump to repeal emissions regulations.

Methane, a significant component of natural gas, ranks as the second primary driver of climate change after CO2. Rapidly reducing its emissions from sectors like oil, gas, agriculture, and landfills is crucial to mitigating climate change over the short term.

Non-CO2 gases, including methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases, contribute significantly to current global warming.

“There’s a strong consensus on addressing non-CO2 greenhouse gases,” stated U.S. climate envoy John Podesta at the summit.

As of now, 158 countries support the Global Methane Pledge, initiated by the U.S. and European Commission in 2021.

The EPA implemented regulations last year aimed at reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas industry by 80%.

The U.S. has also finalized an oil and gas Waste Emissions Charge, targeting facilities emitting over 25,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalents annually. Starting in 2024, excessive emissions will incur charges, escalating to $1,500 per metric ton by 2026. The fee first applies to 2024 emissions.

“We can’t halt the progress in methane abatement technology,” Podesta emphasized.

The American Exploration and Production Council is lobbying against the methane fee, as revealed by documents from The Washington Post.

Executives in the oil and gas sector, including those from the American Petroleum Institute, have been approached for campaign support by Trump. Their wish list for the Trump administration includes repealing the methane fee.

This situation persists despite the increasing frequency of climate change-induced disasters. Greenhouse gases pose significant risks, necessitating immediate action to prevent severe consequences. Climate advocates stress that major emitters like the U.S. must maintain momentum in reducing methane pollution.

Durwood Zaelke from the Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development called for a binding global agreement on methane.

Al Gore, co-founder of Climate TRACE, highlighted a rise in global methane emissions despite the pledge, emphasizing the need for action.

China’s special envoy for climate change, Liu Zhenmin, spoke on efforts to monitor and reduce methane from coal mines. China aims to integrate these reductions into its Paris agreement targets by February.

A study in Nature Communications suggests China could cut emissions equivalent to 660 million metric tons of CO2 by 2030, comparable to closing 170 coal-fired plants.

Gore remains optimistic about global reductions, especially with renewable energy’s affordability.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024