As with so many scientific studies, a preponderance of evidence over a period of time tends to prove a point. That's the lens through which we should assess the study of methane emissions from natural gas drilling operations.
A recent aerial study of three drilling regions in the U.S. including the Marcellus Shale found, based on a single day of data, that methane emissions were at the low end of what other research has suggested. However, notes Mark Brownstein of the Environmental Defense Fund, it's not cause for celebration just yet as more robust studies over longer periods of time suggest methane emissions are often higher than previous estimates.
"EDF’s own studies – including two released last week
looking at the transmission and storage and gathering and processing
sectors of the oil and gas industry – have repeatedly shown that random
leaks and malfunctions are a major source of emissions," said Brownstein. "Because
these events are random, a one-day overflight will not give a full
picture of emissions coming from a basin over a day, a month, or a year.
What is needed is regular and ongoing monitoring."
The evidence once again speaks to the need for ongoing leak detection and repair programs like those implemented in Colorado, Ohio and Wyoming, and why Pennsylvania must show leadership by enacting strong methane regulations.
"Methane has the potential to undermine the climate benefits natural gas provides over other fossil fuels," says Brownstein. And he's right. Pennsylvania cannot afford to wait.
Elaine Labalme is director of communications for PennFuture as is based in Pittsburgh. She tweets @NewGirlInTown.
