Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that is significantly more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide. It is produced through both natural processes, such as the decomposition of organic matter in wetlands, and human activities, including agriculture and fossil fuel extraction.
As a major component of natural gas, methane is used as a fuel source for heating and electricity generation. However, its release into the atmosphere contributes to climate change, making it crucial to manage and reduce methane emissions to protect the environment and public health.