China has introduced stricter regulations to curb methane emissions from coal mining as part of its ongoing climate changeefforts.
From NEA
China has introduced stricter regulations to curb methane emissions from coal mining as part of its ongoing climate changeefforts. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE), in partnership with the State Administration for Market Regulation, revised the Coalbed Methane (Coal Mine Gas) Emission Standards (referred to as the Emission Standards). The updated rules prohibitcoal mine gas emissions with a methane concentration exceeding 8% and a pure extraction rate greater than 10 cubic meters per minute.
According to an MEE spokesperson,the revised standards focus on safety and enhanced emissions control, aiming to reduce greenhouse gases, improve environmental quality, and promote more efficient methane use.Key changes include stricter limits on methane emissions and the introduction of a "pure extraction rate" threshold.
"This revision is pivotal," the MEE spokesperson stated. "By lowering emission thresholds and incorporating new metrics, we are strengthening methane management in the coal industry.These updates align with existing industry technology, ensuring compliance through proven methods while maintaining operational safety and economic feasibility."
The new regulations are expected to cut annual methane emissions by the equivalent of 50 million tons of carbon dioxide.These measures reinforce China’s commitment to global climate goals and position the country as an active participant in international efforts to reduce methane emissions.