A new study released Thursday shows significant leakage of the greenhouse gas, methane, in the nation’s natural gas system, far more than previous government estimates.  

Washington Post : “But even with the current leaks, burning natural gas instead of coal is producing less heat-trapping gas and will slow the rate of climate change over 100 years , the researchers said in their study, published in the current issue of the journal Science.” The team wrote: “If natural gas is to be a ‘bridge’ to a more sustainable energy future, it is a bridge that must be traversed carefully.”  

“Fortunately, they added, that task is achievable, because a large share of the leaked gas comes from a tiny number of “super-emitters,” devices or other parts of the gas and oil system that are allowing disproportionate emissions.”  

“The switch from diesel to natural gas in heavy vehicles, they said, probably has not been worthwhile so far in slowing climate change, even if it has helped with air quality.”  

Crossposted at Wonk Wire.