Emissions of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, from Australian coalmines are much higher than what the government reports. A recent International Energy Agency (IEA) report states that these emissions are over double the official figures. This is concerning for climate experts, who see it as a significant issue.
The IEA’s Global Methane Tracker revealed that in 2025, Australian coalmines, mainly in Queensland and New South Wales, will emit around 1.7 million tonnes of methane. The government’s own data claims only 0.82 million tonnes are emitted, which is equivalent to 25 million tonnes of CO2.
The IEA report uses satellite measurements to assess methane emissions. This method isn’t currently applied by the government, which relies on different estimation methods. Previous IEA reports indicated that actual emissions could be 60% higher than what Australia officially states.
Dr. Sabina Assan from Ember, an energy think tank, highlighted the report as a reminder of the gaps in reporting. She emphasized that addressing methane emissions is crucial for Australia. Methane is known to contribute about 30% of global warming since the Industrial Revolution and is roughly 80 times more effective than CO2 in trapping heat over 20 years.
Experts suggest that tackling methane emissions can quickly slow down climate change because it dissipates within around 12 years, unlike CO2, which lingers for over a century. Recently, Tim Baxter, another climate analyst, mentioned that reducing methane could deliver quick benefits while broader fossil fuel reductions are pursued.
Australia plays a significant role in this issue as one of the world’s largest coal exporters. The country is under scrutiny for its reporting methods, which many independent assessments deem outdated and inaccurate. Even within the agricultural sector, which is reportedly the biggest methane emitter, concerns over precision linger.
A UN-backed study from a Queensland coal mine indicated that actual methane emissions might be three to eight times higher than reported levels. In 2024, the government established an expert panel to enhance methane measurement techniques.
Despite ongoing discussions on improving reporting, officials insist that Australia’s methods comply with international standards as per the Paris Agreement. However, skepticism remains, as many studies continue to point out discrepancies.
Understanding methane’s impact is vital. By addressing these emissions swiftly and effectively, Australia can make substantial progress in mitigating climate change. Balancing economic needs with environmental responsibilities is crucial as we navigate these pressing issues.
For detailed insights into methane emissions, refer to the IEA’s findings here.
