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Himachal Pradesh Faces Growing Non-CO2 Greenhouse Gas Threat

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. faces-growing-non-co2-greenhouse-gas-threat.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, February 25th 2026 at 11:24 GMT by ThePrint
      Locales: Himachal Pradesh, INDIA

Shimla, February 25th, 2026 - While global attention remains fixed on curbing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, the Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh is facing a growing, yet often overlooked, environmental threat: emissions of non-CO2 greenhouse gases. These gases - primarily methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) - contribute significantly to global warming and are exacerbating the impacts of climate change on Himachal's already fragile ecosystem. Experts warn that a failure to address these emissions will severely jeopardize the state's biodiversity, water resources, and the livelihoods of its people.

Himachal Pradesh, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and ecological richness, is demonstrably feeling the heat of climate change. Accelerated glacial melt, increased frequency of landslides, and erratic rainfall patterns are already impacting the state. However, these direct consequences are being compounded by a less visible threat: the rising concentration of non-CO2 gases. These gases possess a significantly higher warming potential than CO2, particularly over shorter timeframes, meaning their impact can be felt much more acutely and rapidly.

The Sources: Beyond Carbon Dioxide

The primary sources of non-CO2 emissions in Himachal Pradesh are deeply intertwined with the state's dominant economic activities. Livestock farming, particularly the rearing of sheep, goats, and cattle - a cornerstone of the rural economy - is a major source of methane. This gas is produced as a byproduct of the animals' digestive processes, known as enteric fermentation. Rice cultivation, while limited in scale compared to other Indian states, also contributes to methane emissions, particularly from flooded paddy fields. Furthermore, the inefficient management of organic waste in landfills and from agricultural residues adds to the problem.

Nitrous oxide, even more potent than methane, is largely generated by agricultural practices. Excessive and often indiscriminate use of nitrogen-based fertilizers, coupled with improper manure management, leads to the release of this powerful greenhouse gas from the soil. The practice of leaving manure piled up for extended periods without proper composting or anaerobic digestion significantly increases N2O emissions. The proliferation of small-scale, often unregulated, farming practices across the mountainous terrain complicates effective monitoring and mitigation.

"We've been so focused on the 'low-hanging fruit' of reducing CO2, that we've created a blind spot when it comes to these other potent gases," explains Dr. Vijay Kumar, a leading climate scientist at Himachal Pradesh University. "In a state like Himachal, where the ecosystem is already stressed, even a relatively small increase in non-CO2 emissions can have a disproportionately large impact. It's not about replacing the focus on CO2, it's about expanding it."

Ecological Consequences: A Cascade of Impacts

The consequences of rising non-CO2 emissions are far-reaching and interlinked. Accelerated glacial melt, driven by both CO2 and non-CO2 forcing, threatens the state's vital water resources, impacting irrigation, hydropower generation, and drinking water supplies. The increase in methane and nitrous oxide further destabilizes the climate, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events, such as landslides and cloudbursts, which contribute to deforestation and soil erosion.

The changing climate is also profoundly impacting agricultural productivity. Shifting growing seasons, increased pest and disease outbreaks, and unpredictable rainfall patterns are disrupting traditional farming practices. This poses a significant threat to food security and the livelihoods of countless farmers who depend on agriculture for their survival. The economic vulnerability of these communities is further compounded by the rising cost of fertilizers and the need for climate-resilient seeds.

Towards a Sustainable Future: Policy and Practice

Addressing Himachal Pradesh's non-CO2 emission challenge requires a comprehensive and integrated approach. This includes promoting sustainable agricultural practices, such as precision fertilizer application, improved manure management through composting and biogas production, and the adoption of climate-resilient crop varieties. Investing in modern waste management infrastructure, including biogas plants and composting facilities, is crucial for reducing methane emissions from organic waste.

Sunita Thakur, an environmental activist working in the Kullu valley, emphasizes the importance of community engagement. "Farmers need access to information, training, and financial incentives to adopt sustainable practices. Policymakers need to listen to the concerns of local communities and incorporate their knowledge into climate mitigation strategies."

The Himachal Pradesh government's recent pilot projects focusing on methane reduction from livestock are a positive step, but a scaled-up, state-wide strategy is urgently needed. This strategy should include robust monitoring and reporting mechanisms to track non-CO2 emissions, as well as targeted policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices across all sectors. Furthermore, promoting alternative energy sources for livestock farming and transportation can significantly reduce overall emissions. The silent crisis of non-CO2 emissions is a critical challenge, and Himachal Pradesh must act decisively to safeguard its fragile ecosystem and the well-being of its people.