The UN Secretary-General has issued a call to action on methane, targeting the three largest emitting sectors: fossil fuels, agriculture, and waste. Methane causes nearly one-third of global warming to date, and cutting it is described as one of the fastest and cheapest ways to slow near-term warming. The plan outlines nine priority actions to be delivered by 2030, including fixing leaks in fossil fuel operations, reducing food loss and waste, and building low-methane waste systems. This roadmap is aimed at governments, industry, and financial institutions. It emphasizes that methane reductions do not replace the need to cut carbon dioxide but are essential to keep the 1.5°C target within reach. The UN argues that action on methane also delivers cleaner air, better crop yields, and economic benefits, making it a practical near-term climate lever.
