Methane regulation falls short for environmentalists

On Wednesday, the European Commission unveiled a new legislative proposal to reduce methane emissions in the energy sector. It would require companies to measure and quantify their methane emissions and to detect and repair methane leaks in their operations. In addition, the proposal bans so-called venting, whereby natural gas is simply vented for cost reasons during pipeline maintenance work, for example, as well as flaring. EU member states will also be required to draw up plans to reduce methane emissions. In particular, methane escaping from abandoned mines and inactive wells.