A new research paper has revealed that liquefied natural gas (LNG) emits more greenhouse gases than coal. This challenges the widespread claim that gas is a cleaner alternative. The research, led by environmental scientist Robert Howarth from Cornell University, was published in the Energy Science & Engineering journal. It found that LNG is 33% worse for planet-heating emissions than coal over a 20-year period.
For years, the fossil fuel industry promoted gas as a cleaner “bridge” fuel. The expansion of LNG facilities in the US, especially along the Gulf Coast, was based on this claim. The US is now the world’s top LNG exporter, followed by Australia and Qatar. However, the research shows that LNG’s impact is much worse than previously thought.
The process of drilling, moving, cooling, and shipping LNG is energy-intensive. In fact, the final burning of gas only accounts for a third of the total emissions. The study found that as much as 3.5% of gas leaks into the atmosphere unburned. Methane, the primary component of natural gas, is 80 times more powerful than carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas, even though it remains in the atmosphere for a shorter period.
Howarth called the idea that gas is a climate solution “greenwashing.” He stressed that gas has a larger greenhouse gas footprint than any other fuel. This research undermines claims from the oil and gas industry, which continues to push gas as a cleaner option for reducing global emissions.
This revelation comes at a critical time, as the world faces increasing pressures to tackle climate change. Methane emissions have risen globally, threatening climate goals. Scientists argue that both coal and gas are harmful to the planet and should be phased out. They emphasize that renewable energy is the only viable solution for a sustainable future.
In conclusion, the study suggests that expanding LNG is not a viable solution to global heating. Ending the use of LNG should be a global priority. As this research gains attention, the fossil fuel industry’s claims are increasingly being challenged, further reinforcing the need to transition to renewable energy.