Media Release: Oil and gas industry says Australia’s methane pledge is a positive step for net zero

The Australian Government’s decision to sign the Global Methane Pledge is an important step in the emissions reduction pathway to net zero, according to the nation’s oil and gas industry.

The Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association (APPEA) today said the sector had worked with the Government as part of the consultation process given the industry’s commitments to emissions reduction were consistent with, or went beyond, the Pledge.

APPEA Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said: “As an industry committed to net zero greenhouse gas emissions economy-wide by 2050, we have worked with the Government towards today’s announcement, paving the way towards a cleaner energy future.

“With Australia’s focus on emissions reduction, signing the Pledge is a positive and important step for our country and the world.

“Reducing methane emissions has been a priority of our industry for decades as members monitor, report and reduce their fugitive emissions profile, participating in several global initiatives.

“A number of APPEA members have already committed directly to the Pledge or have emissions reduction targets consistent with, or going beyond, the Pledge.

“In addition, members participate in global initiatives such as signing on to the Methane Guiding Principles and methane emissions reduction investments through the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative (OGCI).”

Methane emissions from Australia’s oil and gas industry are very low compared to other sectors in Australia and to oil and gas industries in other countries, according to a 2021 study, The Australian Natural Gas Industry: Monitoring, reporting, and reducing methane emissions (see page 34 graph).

Ms McCulloch said: “While the largest sources of methane emissions in Australia are agriculture, coal, land use, and waste, our industry continues to take action to measure, monitor and reduce its methane emissions.

“On top of the billions announced for emissions reduction and renewable technologies, our members employ rigorous leak detection and repair programs while monitoring gas field infrastructure and utilising well integrity processes.”

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