As COP31 comes to Turkey, satellites reveal a landfill methane problem
Summary
Satellites have detected major methane leaks from Turkey’s landfill sites as the country prepares to host COP31 in Antalya. Officials say recycling and gas-capture efforts are improving, but researchers argue the largest dumps still offer big opportunities for emissions cuts.
Key Points
- Satellites have identified 70 methane plumes from Turkey’s 10 highest-emitting waste sites, including the landfill west of Istanbul near Seymen.
- Turkey is hosting COP31 in Antalya and has made methane reduction a priority, but it is not part of the Global Methane Pledge.
- The Environment Ministry says Turkey’s waste recovery rate has risen sharply, while municipal operator ISTAC disputes the satellite-based emissions estimates.
- Researchers say cutting methane from a few large landfills could deliver major climate benefits if collection systems and waste handling improve.
