European Climate Policy in the Context of the Problem of Methane Emissions from Coal Mines in Poland

Bożena Gajdzik (), Katarzyna Tobór-Osadnik, Radosław Wolniak () and Wiesław Wes Grebski
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Bożena Gajdzik: Department of Industrial Informatics, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
Katarzyna Tobór-Osadnik: Department of Safety Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
Radosław Wolniak: Faculty of Organization and Management, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
Wiesław Wes Grebski: Penn State Hazleton, Pennsylvania State University, 76 University Drive, Hazleton, PA 18202-8025, USA

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 10, 1-28

Abstract: This paper presents a thorough examination of methane capture from Polish coal mines, contextualized within the framework of the European Union’s (EU) climate policy objectives. Through a strategic analysis encompassing the interior of coal mines, the surrounding environment, and the macro environment, this study elucidates the complex dynamics involved in methane emissions and capture initiatives. The key findings include a declining trend in absolute methane emissions since 2008, despite fluctuations in coal extraction volumes, and a relatively stable level of methane capture exceeding 300 million m 3 /year since 2014. The analysis underscores the critical role of government support, both in terms of financial incentives and streamlined regulatory processes, to facilitate the integration of methane capture technologies into coal mining operations. Collaboration through partnerships and stakeholder engagement emerges as essential for overcoming resource competition and ensuring the long-term success of methane capture projects. This paper also highlights the economic and environmental opportunities presented by methane reserves, emphasizing the importance of investment in efficient extraction technologies. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly regarding the low efficiency of current de-methanation technologies. Recommendations for modernization and technological innovation are proposed to enhance methane capture efficiency and utilization.

Keywords: methane capture; climate policy; energy utilization; environmental sustainability; coal mining (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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