Yeosu Dialogue Highlights Methane Mitigation as Key to Green Transformation in Asia-Pacific

Solutions for Our Climate and Environmental Defense Fund convened regional stakeholders for a high-level dialogue on how methane mitigation in the energy and waste sectors can accelerate Green Transformation (GX) across the Asia-Pacific region. The event was hosted under the Climate and Clean Air Coalition with support from the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment.

Bringing together representatives from government, industry, academia, and international organizations, the discussion focused on the growing importance of methane as both a climate and energy priority. Participants noted that the LNG supply chain and waste sector together account for a significant share of global methane emissions, while also presenting some of the most immediate and cost-effective opportunities for reduction.

Speakers emphasized that methane mitigation should no longer be treated solely as an environmental issue, but integrated into broader strategies for industrial competitiveness, energy security, and sustainable growth.

Key recommendations from the dialogue included strengthening policy connections between methane reduction, waste management, and energy planning; scaling implementation through regional cooperation; and building on policy momentum such as Korea’s Biogas Act and emerging GX agenda.

The event also highlighted lessons from international experience, including Europe’s methane regulations and Japan’s GX-linked energy planning, as useful models for accelerating action across the region.

Participants concluded that methane mitigation is increasingly a strategic opportunity for resilience, competitiveness, and regional leadership—and should become a core pillar of green transformation in both energy and waste systems.