Methane: The secret marauder Methane is up to 80% more potent than carbon dioxide in causing global warming. It is the main ingredient in Natural Gas. Common sources include leaks from fossil fuel production, organic waste, especially in landfills, our home appliances like furnaces, barbeques, fireplaces, and gas stoves, and of course, farming livestock!
Unlike carbon dioxide, methane persists in the atmosphere for only about 12 years. That’s why methane has been identified as low-hanging fruit in the fight to limit global warming. Methane can be collected from landfills and sanitation facilities and burned off to produce energy (although burning methane also produces carbon dioxide!). Food waste is also a source of methane. Some of the material collected through the green bin program in Ontario is composted. The remainder is transported to large plants, where it is converted into biogas. The residual is used for fertilizer. You can help by using your green bin and promoting the program to others. It may be as simple as helping them get bins to the curb or to a collection station. However, remember that reducing food waste is always a priority.