One Pollutant, Many Healthy Lives Affected: The Human Dimensions of Methane

Reducing methane from oil and gas is one of the fastest ways to slow near-term warming, but the discussion is usually limited to emissions numbers, technical standards, and climate targets. Often overlooked is how methane-producing activities are also a clear and present danger to people. Across oil and gas operations, agriculture, and waste, nearby communities can be exposed to air pollution and other health and safety risks. In the oil and gas sector, flaring and venting can release toxic pollutants associated with headaches, breathing problems, asthma, heart disease, and increased cancer risk. Farmers and livestock producers can face pressure to change established practices while also needing to protect their livelihoods and food security. Residents and workers around landfills may experience odors, fires, unsafe conditions, and other pollution, while waste pickers and nearby communities can be overlooked in decisions about reform. This conversation will look beyond the numbers to consider what the activities that produce it mean for people living near wells, pipelines, compressor stations & flare stacks. It will bring together different perspectives from across these sectors, exploring how methane reductions can deliver climate benefits while also taking account of health, livelihoods, and local knowledge. Panelists: Felix Horne, Senior Expert at Climate Rights International; Kelsey Bilsback, Principal Scientist at PSE Healthy Energy; and James Turitto, Director of Oil and Gas Methane at Clean Air Task Force.