Baku: A side event titled 'Joint Action for Methane Reduction: Solutions in Agriculture, Energy and Waste' was organized jointly by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) within the framework of World Environment Day (WED), APA reports. The event highlighted Azerbaijan's efforts in reducing methane emissions, a crucial factor in combating climate change.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Ms. Inger Andersen, emphasized the urgency of addressing methane emissions due to their significant impact on global temperatures, public health, agriculture, and respiratory diseases among children. She noted that reducing methane emissions could lead to savings of approximately $330 billion.

The event also revealed Azerbaijan's plans to enhance regional organic waste management and processing systems. Serbian Minister of Environmental Protection Sara Pavkov highlighted the potential to prevent up to 75% of emissions from oil, gas, and methane with existing technologies, which could also generate additional revenue. She praised Azerbaijan's leadership in adopting and implementing the Regional Organic Waste Declaration, supported by UNEP, which promotes actions in the oil and gas sector.

First Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Aghakarim Samadzade reaffirmed Azerbaijan's commitment to international agreements on methane emission reduction. He stated that Azerbaijan achieved a 12.5% reduction in methane emissions between 1990 and 2022. Despite economic growth, the share of methane emissions has remained stable. Azerbaijan's efforts include 14 initiatives to support global climate action as part of its COP29 presidency.

The State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) has joined international efforts like the Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter and the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0. SOCAR aims to achieve net-zero operational emissions by 2050, end routine flaring by 2030, and minimize methane emissions by 2035.

The event concluded with a panel session titled 'National Joint Actions and International Cooperation', discussing ongoing efforts and opportunities for strengthening joint action and international cooperation in reducing methane emissions.