Cities emit methane (CH4) a short-lived climate pollutant with ~80x more warming potential than an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide. Reducing methane emissions — from cities and other sources — is important for slowing the pace of global warming. However, we have a very limited understanding of the sources and rates of methane emissions in Canadian cities. This limits our ability to act to reduce those emissions. Once the sources and rates are known, we can develop evidence-based policies and strategies to reduce those emissions.

The goal of CURMET, led by researchers at the University of Calgary, is to improve measurement and understanding of methane emissions from cities in order to streamline mitigation. Using Calgary as a testbed, we apply new science and measurement technology to develop a more complete and detailed picture of the city’s methane emissions. The project’s anticipated outcomes are:

• Methods and tools to help cities build better methane emissions inventories and baselines;

• A transition from assumptions to measurements for designing evidence-based policies, regulations, and programs; and

• Prioritization of near-term mitigation activities to achieve meaningful reductions that support climate actions.