The issue of methane emissions and their role in climate change is garnering increasing attention, particularly as they are often underestimated. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is released not just during the combustion of fossil fuels but also during the extraction and transport processes. New findings suggest that these emissions might be 1.8 times higher than previously estimated, primarily due to untracked methane leaks. This trend highlights the need for accurate assessments and effective mitigation strategies to combat climate change.

Last September, environmentalist Sharon Wilson, aged 73, conducted an investigation in Texas, an area prominent for natural gas development. She used a specialized camera capable of detecting infrared emissions of methane to inspect liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities. While these leaks might not be visible to the naked eye, Wilson's footage revealed clear evidence of gas leaking from the facilities. Notably, major Japanese companies, like JERA, source their LNG from this region, making the findings particularly relevant for Japan's energy policies.

Wilson is actively researching undisclosed methane leaks around the world, including areas like Tokyo Bay. She emphasizes the insufficiency of corporate measures to mitigate methane emissions, stating that many companies are failing to adequately report these leaks. Her campaign aims to encourage stricter regulatory measures and push for enhanced corporate responsibility regarding methane emissions, as failing to tackle this issue will hinder global efforts against climate change and damage environmental sustainability.