Recent research from PSE Healthy Energy emphasizes the serious health risks posed by methane leaks, which are often overlooked in discussions about climate change and public health. Methane, primarily released from oil and gas operations, is a potent climate pollutant and is accompanied by harmful substances like benzene, a known carcinogen. The study identified “super-emitter” events in 11 US states from 2016 to 2025, pinpointing areas where public health is at risk. These emissions can affect not only workers and nearby communities but also individuals living up to 19 kilometers away. PSE estimates that over 126,000 people in the US may be exposed to these dangers, likely underestimating the true number as the study covers only a fraction of methane releases. The EU is currently working on a regulation aimed at tracking and reducing methane emissions, which faces opposition from US officials and the oil and gas lobby. Strong enforcement of this regulation is crucial to protect communities and achieve global climate goals.
