FICCI, the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and the Government of India (Ministry of Power, Ministry of Coal and Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas) are jointly organising a two-day conference on the Methane to Markets Partnership (M2M) and methane recovery and use project opportunities in India. The conference will provide an introduction to the Partnership and specific technical and project level discussions in three industry sectors: coal mining, landfills and oil and natural gas.

The Methane to Markets Partnership is an action-oriented initiative to advance the recovery and use of methane as a clean energy source. Methane is a hydrocarbon and the primary component of natural gas. It is also a potent greenhouse gas. Reducing global methane emissions will enhance economic growth, promote energy security, improve the environment, and reduce greenhouse gases. Other benefits include improving mine safety, reducing waste and improving local air quality.

The Partnership is implemented through collaboration between developed countries, developing countries, and countries with economies in transition - together with strong participation from the private sector. Nineteen Partner countries have joined M2M along with over 480 public and private sector organisations that participate through a Project Network. The Methane to Markets Partnership is focused on four major methane sources: agriculture, landfills, coal mines, and natural gas and oil systems. For additional information on M2M please visit www.methanetomarkets.org.