Turning Down the Heat for a Cooler Climate Future

Emissions contributions to 2010-2019 gross warming relative to 1850-1900.

 

When we think about climate change impacts, it is often carbon dioxide that takes centre stage – ‘carbon reduction’ is an immediate signal that comes to mind. However, lurking quietly behind the scenes lies methane, a powerful greenhouse gas with the capacity to trap heat far more effectively than CO₂. 

What has been done to spotlight methane’s outsized effects on climate change, and how can the nation step up to reduce our emissions?  

Combatting the Impacts of an Invisible Enemy  

“Methane stays in the atmosphere for a shorter time, which presents a unique opportunity for us to achieve faster climate benefits,” says Professor Matthew Ashfold, Head of the School of Environmental and Geographical Sciences. “Cutting methane emissions would essentially mean turning down the volume on climate change in the near term, providing us with an effective, meaningful low-hanging fruit towards a more sustainable future.” 

Methane Emissions Reductions Policy Brief Launch in line with the Global Methane Pledge.

 

In 2021, Malaysia joined over 150 nations on the Global Methane Pledge (GMP), in pledging to cut global methane emissions by 30% by 2030. However, as Professor Ashfold’s research reveals, the country still lacks national-level alignment in effectively coordinating these efforts.

Through detailed research reviews, public surveys, as well as discussions and conversations with policymakers, his team found that while methane emissions are beginning to decline – driven primarily by initiatives from the oil and gas, and palm oil sectors – there remains a pressing need for stronger policies and transparent monitoring.  

 
The good news? Much of methane emissions is avoidable! These reductions can be central to Malaysia’s energy transition agendas and are highly relevant in encouraging greater centralised efforts towards sustainably development. 

Mapping A Clearer Pathway to Cleaner Air 

Through a collaborative approach with academic partners at Universiti Malaya and funded by the Environmental Defense Fund, the research combined expertise on atmospheric and climate sciences with environmental politics and governance, showcasing the value and impact of interdisciplinary engagements. 

If efforts at emissions reduction across key industries can be scaled, fast-tracked, and given due policy priority, Malaysia has strong potential to contribute to global climate action, within long-term national interest.  

More than just a roadmap for Malaysia to meet its commitments and safeguard its long-term environmental and economic future, Professor Ashfold’s research is a story of science turning into tangible change, with methane reduction at the heart of the journey.