Chang, D. Y., & Jeong, S.* (2025). Climate and Economic Benefits of Reducing Fugitive Methane Emissions through Atmospheric Monitoring. Atmosphere, 35(4), 541–548. https://doi.org/10.14191/ATMOS.2025.35.4.541

Abstract:

Methane, despite having a relatively shorter atmospheric lifespan than carbon dioxide, is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential over 80 times higher on a 20-year basis. Therefore, reducing methane emissions can significantly contribute to effective climate change mitigation. In the energy sector, methane emissions primarily originate from leaks during fossil fuel production, processing, transport, and usage. This study highlights the need for and the potential benefits of expanding Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) programs based on strengthened Measurement, Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MMRV) systems. If LDAR is expanded to power generation facilities in Korea, it’s possible to prevent methane leakage equivalent to about 2.57% of the nation’s annual power generation. This could result in a saving of over 620,000 tons of LNG, achieving a cost reduction of approximately 530 billion KRW. This is further estimated to save social value costs equivalent to 5 trillion KRW and is expected to reduce greenhouse gases by about 80,000 tons of CO2eq from the fuel combustion process. Mitigating methane emissions not only contributes to climate change mitigation but also reduces tropospheric ozone formation, thereby improving air quality and public health. Furthermore, preventing unintended energy loss yields mid- and long-term economic savings. Given that South Korea is one of the largest importers of natural gas, enhancing methane management in industrial complexes and metropolitan areas is essential for achieving national carbon neutrality goals. Moreover, Expanding LDAR programs can practically contribute to the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).