The War Against Methane Leaks Gets a New Data Tool

Analysts have a more precise measurement of how much US natural gas goes directly into the atmosphere, worsening climate change far more than if it was first sold in the marketplace for energy. About 2.2% of all methane extracted in the US ends up escaping across the natural gas supply chain, according to a new index that combines estimates with data collected in aerial flyovers to document the scale of the problem.

The new finding comes from a methane-intensity index set to be announced Thursday by MiQ and Highwood Emissions Management, which is aimed at spurring market implications for companies that produce and transport natural gas. By establishing a national baseline, the index could ward off natural gas buyers and investors from producers whose methane emissions run high.