Methane leaks in Turkmenistan remain high
Turkmenistan had set ambitious goals: by joining the Global Methane Pledge, the country aimed to significantly reduce its emissions. However, new data paints a different picture—and casts doubt on the effectiveness of these commitments.
Analyses by international researchers confirm that Turkmenistan remains one of the world’s largest contributors to methane emissions. Particularly striking: Facilities in the Central Asian nation dominate the list of the largest known methane leaks. Methane is considered one of the most climate-damaging greenhouse gases—and leaks could be fixed relatively easily.
Officials in Ashgabat recently stated that they had the situation under control and were quickly sealing leaks. Yet independent assessments show no substantial progress so far. This is frustrating for experts—especially since the technological solutions have long been available.
The discussion is becoming even more pressing because Turkmenistan is increasingly eyeing the European gas market. There, however, requirements are tightening: The EU is working on stricter limits for methane emissions in imported gas.
Satellite data is now making the problem more visible than ever before. Thousands of detected methane plumes reveal the extent of the emissions—and are increasing international pressure on the country.
