Methane regulation in the EU: Stakeholder perspectives on MRV and emissions reductions

Methane is potent greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting for 11% of all EU emissions, but in contrast to CO 2 it has received relatively little attention. Although methane regulated under the Effort Sharing framework, this policy lacks methane-specific regulations or targets, leaving Member States considerable discretion over whether prioritize reduction not. The European Commission presented a proposal regulation on 15 December 2021. However, our understanding how design measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) limited. MRV involves many stakeholders at different steps process (policymakers, industry, civil society, service providers, etc.), whose perspectives may differ, study aims gain an insight into what constitutes effective by garnering stakeholders’ perspectives. reveals that: (1) limits voluntary initiatives justify regulatory intervention, (2) major barrier implementation not economic, relates incomplete sources available measurement technologies, (3) likely be most challenging element implement, partly due limited number accredited verifiers overlapping tasks (4) needs accompanied mitigation policies incentivising continuous improvement companies’ performance. recommends enhancing proposed by: introducing equal requirements operated non-operated assets; obligation report uncertainties; closer integration LDAR; clear rules; introduction minimum optimum control standards. • Upcoming improve quantification emissions. 59 experts interviewed identify barriers MRV. Two opposing approaches are highlighted. This identifies key areas framework. A pathway accelerate reductions suggested.