HYDERABAD: Two major Indian landfill sites in Hyderabad and Mumbai rank among the world's top 25 methane-emitting waste disposal locations.
A new study by the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) revealed these findings under its STOP Methane Project.
Hyderabad and Mumbai Feature in Global Rankings
The study places the Jawahar Nagar landfill in Hyderabad at fourth globally. It emits about 5.9 tonnes of methane per hour. Meanwhile, Mumbai's Kanjurmarg landfill ranks 12th, releasing nearly 4.9 tonnes per hour.
In comparison, a landfill at Campo de Mayo in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, tops the list. It produces 7.6 tonnes of methane per hour.
Study Analysed Thousands of Emission Sources
Researchers examined nearly 3,000 methane plumes across more than 700 waste sites worldwide. As a result, they identified the 25 highest-emitting locations. Emission levels ranged between 3.6 and 7.6 tonnes per hour.
Moreover, the sites are spread across different regions and income-level countries. These include Brazil, Chile, India, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey.
Methane's Role in Global Warming
Methane remains a highly potent greenhouse gas. In fact, it is about 86 times more impactful than carbon dioxide over a shorter period. It also contributes to over 45% of recent global warming.
To put this into perspective, a source emitting 5 tonnes of methane per hour has a warming impact comparable to one million SUVs.
Experts Call for Greater Transparency and Action
Juan Pablo Escudero, a partner in UCLA's STOP Methane Project, highlighted the importance of accessible data. He said that better visibility can push governments and operators to act faster.
He also noted that reliable data helps responsible authorities improve waste management practices. As a result, countries can take stronger steps to reduce emissions from landfills.