Standardizing methane emission monitoring: A global policy perspective for the oil and gas industry

Abstract

Methane emissions from the oil and gas industry are a major contributor to climate change due to their high global warming potential. Accurate and standardized monitoring of these emissions is essential for effective mitigation. This review explores the current state of methane emission monitoring technologies, highlighting the strengths and limitations of direct measurement, remote sensing, and modeling approaches. It also examines the diverse regulatory frameworks and industry practices, identifying key challenges such as accuracy, consistency, and economic barriers. The paper proposes strategies for harmonizing monitoring standards globally, including adopting international guidelines, certification programs, and centralized reporting platforms. Additionally, it advocates for innovative regulatory approaches that incentivize better monitoring and reporting practices and emphasizes the need for international cooperation through data sharing and capacity building. The review concludes by discussing the potential impact of standardized monitoring on the industry, outlining future research and development directions, and calling for proactive steps by all stakeholders to achieve effective methane emission reduction. Keywords: Methane Emissions, Oil and Gas Industry, Monitoring Technologies and Regulatory Frameworks.