How to Turn Insights from the UNEP 2024 Methane Report into Powerful Climate Communication

Reducing methane emissions has become an urgent and indispensable step in addressing the climate crisis. The recently published UNEP 2024 report, An Eye on Methane: Invisible but not Unseen, sheds light on the potential of data-driven tools to drive impactful mitigation strategies.

At #inextremis, we have delved into this comprehensive document to extract key insights and explore its relevance for European and international communication leaders.

Key takeaways from the UNEP 2024 report

Methane accounts for roughly one-third of the warming our planet is experiencing today. As a greenhouse gas, it is highly potent but relatively short-lived, meaning that its reduction can bring immediate benefits for slowing global warming.

The report offers a rich analysis of technological advances and sector-specific opportunities to curb emissions, focusing on actionable solutions across industries such as oil and gas, steel, and coal mining.

• Actionable frameworks: Initiatives such as the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0) and the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS) provide robust reporting and monitoring methodologies. OGMP 2.0’s rigorous “Gold Standard” reporting highlights the importance of transitioning from estimates to empirical measurements.
• Data-driven insights: Over 1,200 methane emissions events were identified through satellite technologies in 2024, yet only 1% elicited substantive action from stakeholders. The gap between detection and response underlines the need for more robust frameworks and collaboration.
• Opportunities in the steel sector: Methane from metallurgical coal, representing 10% of energy-sector methane emissions, offers a significant but underexplored mitigation potential. UNEP estimates that a 30% reduction in the climate footprint of steel production can be achieved at just 1% of the cost of steel.

Our perspective: communicating complexity with clarity

As communication specialists with deep experience in sustainability and climate issues, we see the UNEP report as a roadmap for enhancing dialogue and action.

Effective communication is critical to translating these insights into tangible results. Here are a few areas where we believe communication leaders can make an impact:

• Building stakeholder consensus: Methane reduction demands a coordinated effort involving governments, industries, and NGOs. Communicating shared goals and showcasing successful mitigation examples can strengthen collective action.
• Leveraging data transparency: The growing availability of satellite and AI-driven data transforms how emissions are monitored. Communication strategies should emphasise openness, not just as a compliance mechanism but as a tool for trust and collaboration.
• Sector-specific narratives: Tailoring messages to industries such as oil, gas, and steel can help highlight economic opportunities alongside environmental benefits, making the case for immediate investment in greener practices.

Demonstrating expertise and understanding

At #inextremis, we understand that environmental communication requires nuance and authority. Our collaborations with organisations such as WWF, Greenpeace, UNEP, and the European Environment Agency have equipped us to tackle complex topics while respecting the expertise of our partners.

Communication leaders in European associations and international organisations are already profoundly informed about these issues. Our role is to enhance the reach and resonance of their messages.

The UNEP report highlights the urgency of moving from ambition to action. It underscores that while tools and frameworks exist, their adoption and implementation require strategic, coherent communication. This is where we see a shared responsibility and opportunity.

Inspiring action through communication

Methane reduction is a challenge that demands immediate attention. Yet, it represents one of the most cost-effective ways to slow climate change. As a creative agency with a track record in sustainability, #inextremis is committed to partnering with organisations to amplify impactful narratives and support effective advocacy.

By aligning scientific insights with stakeholder engagement, we can contribute to shaping a more sustainable future.

The tools are ready, the data is precise, and the opportunities are within reach. Let’s work together to ensure the following steps are decisive, collaborative, and transformative.