Methane (CH4)

Definition

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that is released during natural processes like decomposition of organic matter and human activities such as livestock farming and fossil fuel extraction. It has a much higher warming potential than carbon dioxide.

Related terms

Global warming potential (GWP):

A measure of how much heat a greenhouse gas can trap in the atmosphere over time compared to carbon dioxide.

Livestock farming: Agricultural practice involving raising animals for meat, dairy products, or other purposes.

Landfills:

Sites where waste materials are disposed of by burying them underground. Methane is produced during the decomposition of organic waste in landfills.