Fact Check: LNG production can contribute to reducing global carbon emissions.

Fact Check: "LNG production can contribute to reducing global carbon emissions."

What We Know

The claim that liquefied natural gas (LNG) production can contribute to reducing global carbon emissions is contradicted by recent research. A study published by Cornell University indicates that LNG has a greenhouse gas footprint that is 33% worse than coal when considering the entire lifecycle of production, processing, and shipping (Cornell Study). This study highlights that the emissions of methane and carbon dioxide during LNG's extraction, processing, transportation, and storage account for approximately half of its total greenhouse gas footprint. Over a 20-year period, LNG's carbon footprint is one-third larger than that of coal, and even over a 100-year period, it equals or exceeds coal's footprint (Cornell Study).

The liquefaction process, which involves cooling natural gas to liquid form, is energy-intensive and contributes significantly to emissions. The study also notes that methane, which is released during LNG production and transportation, is over 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide in terms of its impact on global warming (Cornell Study).

In contrast, some sources argue that LNG can be a transitional fuel that emits fewer greenhouse gases compared to coal when burned (S&P Global Study). However, this perspective often overlooks the full lifecycle emissions associated with LNG, particularly the methane emissions during extraction and transport.

Analysis

The evidence presented by the Cornell study is compelling and comes from a reputable academic institution. The findings are based on comprehensive data analysis and peer-reviewed research, making it a reliable source for understanding the environmental impact of LNG (Cornell Study). The study's author, Robert Howarth, is a recognized expert in ecology and environmental biology, which adds credibility to the claims made.

On the other hand, the argument that LNG can reduce global carbon emissions is often supported by studies that focus solely on the combustion emissions of LNG compared to coal, without considering the entire lifecycle emissions (S&P Global Study). This selective analysis can lead to misleading conclusions. The reliability of such studies can vary, and they may be influenced by industry interests promoting LNG as a cleaner alternative.

Moreover, other studies have pointed out that the shipping of LNG contributes significantly to its overall greenhouse gas emissions, further complicating the narrative that LNG is a cleaner energy source (Inside Climate News). The potential for methane leaks during extraction and transportation is a critical factor that undermines the argument for LNG as a low-emission fuel.

Conclusion

The claim that LNG production can contribute to reducing global carbon emissions is False. The evidence overwhelmingly indicates that LNG has a greater greenhouse gas footprint than coal when considering the full lifecycle of emissions. While LNG may produce fewer emissions when burned compared to coal, the significant methane emissions during its production and transport negate any potential benefits. Therefore, promoting LNG as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels is misleading and does not align with the current scientific understanding of its environmental impact.