/ Publications / Energy security meets the circular economy : a stronger case for sustainable biomethane production in the EU
Gas | Other
Energy security meets the circular economy : a stronger case for sustainable biomethane production in the EU
29 April 2022
Authors: OLCZAK, Maria; PIEBALGS, Andris
The outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war has revived discussions on the EU’s dependence on fossil fuel imports from Russia. To ensure gas diversification, the EU Commission has suggested over a tenfold increase in EU biomethane production from the current ~3 billion cubic meters (bcm) to 35 bcm by 2030. While higher gas prices could provide some incentive for biomethane production in the short term, additional measures will be necessary to reach the 2030 target. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has suggested that putting a value on methane emissions (which would otherwise be emitted from the decomposition of organic waste in the agriculture and waste sectors) avoided could support biomethane production while reducing this potent GHG. This could be an interesting option for the EU to support achievement of its Global Methane Pledge commitment. The EU circular economy framework could help boost biomethane production by alleviating energy security concerns, but it requires better policy coordination. This policy brief identifies four focus areas: (a) measurement, reporting and verification of methane emissions from the agriculture and waste sectors; (b) continual improvement of best practices to mitigate methane emissions; (c) sustainable production of biomethane; and (d) responsible operation of biomethane plants.
The European rail sector is experiencing a rapid transformation thanks to digitalisation. At the same time, policymakers and industry stakeholders navigate the challenges of regulation, digitalisation, and fair competition. From [...]
This timely book sheds light on the challenges facing European rail, air and intermodal transport regulation. Considering the impact of developments from digitalization to climate change, expert contributors provide a [...]
Data sharing in transport has been identified as a key enabler of the development of new digital platforms that aggregate services for the benefit of passengers, both services provided by [...]
Join our community
To meet, discuss and learn in the channel that suits you best.
We use cookies to help personalise content and provide a better experience. By clicking Accept all, you agree to this, as outlined in our Cookie Policy. To change preferences or withdraw consent, please update your Cookie Preferences.