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Study Finds Oil-Gas Wells Emit Far More Methane Than Reported

7/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Center for Climate Integrity released a report that oil-gas wells emitted more methane than companies acknowledged.
The report draws on industry documents and a 1979 American Gas Association study warning of under-reported greenhouse gases.
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) chief scientist Steven Hamburg said industry’s knowledge of methane releases is unclear.
The group says sector downplayed methane concerns while marketing gas as a clean fuel as electric appliances grew.

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Story summary

The Center for Climate Integrity released a report that oil-gas wells emitted more methane than companies acknowledged.
The report draws on industry documents and a 1979 American Gas Association study warning of under-reported greenhouse gases.
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) chief scientist Steven Hamburg said industry’s knowledge of methane releases is unclear.
The group says sector downplayed methane concerns while marketing gas as a clean fuel as electric appliances grew.