Methane is the second-largest greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide, and according to the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, anthropogenic methane emissions account for nearly 45% of current net warming. A new tool has now exposed that sewer systems, often overlooked, are a significant source of this potent gas.
Researchers have developed a method to quantify methane emissions from sewer infrastructure, which had previously been hidden from view. The tool uses measurements of methane concentrations in sewer air and flow rates to estimate emissions, revealing that these systems can release substantial amounts of methane into the atmosphere.
The findings underscore the importance of addressing methane leaks from wastewater treatment and collection systems as part of broader climate mitigation efforts. The tool provides a way to identify hotspots and prioritize repairs, potentially reducing emissions from this unexpected source.
