Reducing Methane Emissions in waste management

Less frequently mentioned than CO2, methane plays a significant role in the increase in temperatures since the pre-industrial era, accounting for nearly half of this rise (IPCC, 2021). Although its lifespan is much shorter than that of CO2, its global warming potential is 81 times greater. Given that a significant portion of methane emissions originate from human activities, its reduction represents a strategic challenge for mitigating the effects of climate change.

According to the IEA, 20% of global methane emissions come from waste management, a figure that rises to 35% in the European Union (EEA, 2022). These emissions are primarily divided between biowaste (food, green waste) and non-biowaste (forest residues, wastewater, etc.). To meet the overall reduction target of 30% set by the Global Methane Pledge in 2021, it is therefore imperative to significantly reduce emissions from waste management. However, current regulations, particularly in Europe, remain very limited.

In the absence of binding regulations, collaboration among all stakeholders is essential. In our study, we structured reduction levers around five measures according to their potential contribution to reducing waste methane emissions:

• Separation and valorization of organic waste (21% to 31%)
• Reduction of food loss and waste (20% to 24%)
• Stabilization of organic waste before landfilling (19% to 23%)
• Mitigation at wastewater treatment plants (10% to 11%)
• Methane recovery at landfills (1% to 10%)

At Sia Partners, we already support industry operators in developing their strategies to reduce methane emissions. By anticipating regulatory changes, we assist them in managing data and effectively implementing their strategies. Our services include feasibility studies for methane recovery systems and the installation of anaerobic digesters in wastewater treatment plants, conducting cost-benefit analyses, and developing roadmaps for biomethane-to-biofuel conversion projects.

At Sia Partners, we believe that developing an effective strategy for reducing methane emissions starts with a thorough analysis of existing internal processes and their real-world impacts. This involves engaging with operational teams, carry on in-depth data analysis, and closely approaching methane emission sources to understand reduction levers. Our expertise in this field allows us to develop a unique approach to help industrial companies achieve their methane emission reduction goals at various scales.

*Other main sources include agriculture (40%) and energy (37%), both addressed in separate articles.