Methane Matters campaign calls for reduced emissions

Methane is a key component in the world’s cleanest fossil fuel, natural gas. Yet, being clean does not make methane unproblematic.  

When released into the atmosphere, methane’s heat-trapping tendencies contribute directly to global warming. Methane is 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide when released into the environment and therefore has an extremely negative effect on our environment.  

Methane emissions, however, can be easily reduced with a few simple steps. Methane is primarily released through venting, flaring and leaking during drilling and production done by gas and oil companies. Modern technologies have been proven to curb emissions without causing major repercussions.  

Implementing these innovative technologies to reduce and mitigate methane emission is the key focus of the Methane Matters petition sponsored by the American Conservation Coalition.  

The ACC’s petition has been signed by over 6,000 young adults, including many in the Oklahoma City area. With a focus on young people ages 18-35, ACC strives to engage individuals who are specifically looking at entering the gas and oil industry.  

In an interview with some of the ACC team, these young people were described by the Grassroots Programming Director, Lily Moll, as “the perfect group” due to the overwhelming care and interest they have on improving sustainable practices in our world. 

Students of every degree and of every background care about this idea according to ACC. By increasing awareness and engaging students in this valuable cause, American Conservation Coalition achieves their mission of building a community that pursues conservation. 

Many companies have already taken steps towards decreasing their methane emissions, and even more will continue to do so due to the impact of organizations like ACC and initiatives like Methane Matters. 

ACC encourages members of all communities to gather and persuade the gas and oil industry to adopt better practices. They even remind audiences that reducing emissions would have economic benefits and help generate more revenue.  

The technology for change already exists – it is simply a matter of it being utilized by corporations. Young people play a key role in starting and carrying out this mission throughout their lives.  

OCU students seeking to get involved in this noble cause can explore becoming a member of the American Conservation Coalition for benefits such as an expanded network of like-minded individuals, resources, training and more.