Methane CO2-Equivalent Calculator
Convert methane emissions to CO2-equivalent for both 20-year and 100-year Global Warming Potential horizons.
kg
CO2e (20-year horizon)
40,000 kg CO2e
CO2e (100-year horizon)14,000 kg CO2e
CO2e (100-year, tonnes)14.00 tonnes
CO2e (20-year horizon) vs Methane Emitted
Methane to CO2 Equivalence
Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas that traps far more heat per molecule than CO2 but breaks down faster in the atmosphere.
Formula
CO2-Equivalent = Methane Mass (kg) x GWP Factor
The 20-year GWP of methane is about 80, reflecting its intense short-term warming. The 100-year GWP is about 28, accounting for atmospheric breakdown. The choice of time horizon significantly affects policy priorities.
Example Calculation
A landfill releases 500 kg of methane per year.
- 0120-year CO2e = 500 x 80 = 40,000 kg CO2e
- 02100-year CO2e = 500 x 28 = 14,000 kg CO2e
- 03In tonnes (100-yr): 14,000 / 1,000 = 14 tonnes CO2e