Turkmenistan Identified as Major Contributor to Global Methane Emissions and Climate Change

Research shows that methane leaks from oil and gas facilities contribute significantly to global warming, with Turkmenistan hosting 15 of the 25 worst leaks. The Stop Methane Project highlights the economic benefits of sealing these leaks, which could reduce emissions equivalent to the annual output of the UK. Methane is responsible for 25% of global warming, with rising levels since 2007 posing risks of climate tipping points.

Published Mar 23, 2026

Methane emissions from oil and gas installations are a major contributor to global warming, with Turkmenistan leading in methane leaks. The Stop Methane Project from UCLA ranks Turkmenistan as having 15 of the 25 worst leaks, with emissions equating to 366 million tons of CO2 from just two gas fields.

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In the U.S., significant leaks were also detected, including a plume in Texas leaking 5.5 tons of methane per hour. Methane currently accounts for 25% of global warming, with scientists noting a concerning rise since 2007. Reducing methane emissions could yield rapid climate benefits.