Newslish
ArchiveLesson #168Science

Stopping Methane Leaks Can Help Climate

Methane is a strong greenhouse gas. Reducing methane emissions is urgent for slowing climate change.

Free · No ads

Pick your level

Standard version (B1-B2)

Standard: natural English

Methane is a powerful greenhouse that traps heat. It is more than 80 times stronger than carbon dioxide over 20 years. Methane causes about 25% of global heating today. In 2023, Damian Carrington reported on 1,000 super- methane leaks worldwide. These leaks are to fix. Turkmenistan is the worst country for these mega-leaks and has begun to the problem. Experts say stopping these leaks is like pulling an emergency brake for the . However, many countries are still failing to act. It is important to stop methane from into the atmosphere to slow change.

Lesson audio

Standard level

Tap to play

Narration includes the headline and summary.

Adapted from The Guardian, 3 September 2026, and rewritten at three levels by Newslish. Newslish is not affiliated with the source. Read the original.

Grammar in this story

Experts say stopping these leaks is like pulling an emergency brake for the climate.

Reporting verb + that-clause. Read the guide

Key vocabulary

  • emitting verb

    To release or give off something.

    The factory is emitting smoke into the air.

  • address verb

    To deal with or discuss a problem.

    We need to address the issue of climate change.

  • urgent adjective

    Something that needs immediate attention.

    The doctor said it was urgent to get treatment.

  • gas noun

    A substance that is not solid or liquid and can fill a space.

    The gas in the balloon made it float.

  • climate noun

    The usual weather conditions in a place.

    The climate in the desert is very dry.

Quick quiz

01What is the main idea of the article?

02What does 'emitting' mean as used in the text?

03What percentage of global heating is caused by methane?

04Which country has started to plug methane leaks?

Answered 0 of 4

Discussion

What do you think about the fact that methane causes 25% of global heating today? In your answer, use the words 'urgent' and 'emitting'.