PCC Webinar: The Role of Methane Abatement in South Africa’s Climate and Development Pathway

The Role of Methane Abatement in South Africa’s Climate and Development Pathway

Date: Monday, 10 November 2025
Time: 11:00 – 13:00 (Zoom)

Methane is a short-lived but highly potent greenhouse gas—over 80 times more powerful than carbon dioxide (CO₂)—and accounts for about 15% of South Africa’s total emissions. Its main sources include agriculture (particularly livestock), fugitive emissions from fossil fuel extraction and processing, and waste management.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), reducing human-caused methane emissions by up to 45% this decade could deliver rapid climate benefits while improving air quality, health, and agricultural productivity. In South Africa, methane abatement presents a strategic opportunity to strengthen energy and food security, create jobs, and advance the goals of a just transition.

The Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) will host its first Methane Abatement Dialogue to highlight methane’s critical role in achieving the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 2035 targets. The dialogue will bring together policymakers, scientists, and sector experts to discuss science-based insights, policy frameworks, and practical opportunities in methane reduction across the energy, agriculture, and waste sectors.

Objectives of the Dialogue:

• Position methane abatement as a near-term climate priority for South Africa

• Share scientific and policy insights on methane’s impact

• Explore actionable opportunities in key sectors

• Discuss governance, finance, and policy integration

• Identify follow-up areas for technical and sectoral engagement