Natural gas has emerged as a critical player in meeting the world's energy demands. As nations strive to adopt cleaner energy sources to mitigate climate change, natural gas is seen as that alternative. This transition is particularly significant in developing regions where millions still rely on wood and coal for heating and cooking. According to the World Health Organization, around 2.6 billion people worldwide still use wood, coal, and other biomass for cooking, contributing to indoor air pollution and health issues.
Advocates argue that natural gas can serve as a bridge to cleaner energy by reducing reliance on more polluting coal and complementing intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar. When burned for electricity generation, natural gas emits about half the CO2 compared to coal.
The COP28 climate deal in late 2023 acknowledged the role of transitional fuels like natural gas while committing to moving away from fossil fuels.
For 2.6 billion people, natural gas is crucial in reducing emissions, protecting health, and improving air quality, especially in developing countries transitioning from wood to coal. To achieve sustainable and equitable outcomes, the global energy transition must consider the diverse needs and challenges of developed and developing regions.