Chief Executive’s Monthly Update – October 2025
By Charlotte Morton OBE, Chief Executive of the World Biogas Association
Welcome to this edition of the WBA Newsletter.
As we approach COP30, the global policy landscape for renewable gases and sustainable fuels is evolving rapidly and positively for our sector.
First, the Brazilian COP Presidency, together with Japan, India and Italy, has launched the Belém 4x Pledge on Sustainable Fuels, a landmark commitment to quadruple the use of sustainable fuels – including renewable gases like biomethane – by 2035. To be formally presented at the COP30 Leaders’ Summit (7 November) this represents a major step toward embedding renewable gases in the global energy transition. WBA will participate in the Clean Energy Ministerial Future Fuel Action Plan High-Level Roundtable, where we will help turn the pledge into real-world action.
Simultaneously, at the XXIV Meeting of the Forum of Ministers of Environment of Latin America and the Caribbean in Lima, 33 nations endorsed a bold Regional Cooperation Programme for Reducing Methane Emissions from Organic Waste and Closing Dumpsites. Supported by UN Environment Programme and Climate & Clean Air Coalition Secretariat, this programme sets ambitious regional targets: a 30% reduction in methane emissions from waste by 2030, 30% diversion of organic waste by 2035, and the complete phase-out of organic waste disposal in landfills by 2040. This is a landmark in the journey toward circular waste management and positions the region as a global leader in methane mitigation ahead of COP30.
While progress continues, challenges remain. Under pressure from the Trump administration and Saudi Arabia, the IMO has delayed its vote on new Net Zero regulations by a year. We remain steadfast in advocating for the swift adoption of policies aligned with our Position Statement and will continue to engage with stakeholders to maintain momentum toward decarbonisation.
Our Let Green Gas Campaign took a significant step forward with the launch of the Corporate End-Users Letter, a further call for the GHG Protocol to recognise market-based instruments for renewable gases such as biomethane. The letter has been signed by 32 leading industrial and utility companies, including Mondelēz International, Scania Group, Carrefour, Nestlé, Volvo Trucks, Pernod Ricard and Tata Steel Nederland, all united in their commitment to biomethane as a cornerstone of their decarbonisation strategies.
Together, we are making the case for biogas – not only as a renewable energy source but as an essential climate solution. I look forward to seeing many of you in Belém as we continue to advance our shared mission toward a sustainable, circular and low-carbon future. WBA will host a series of side events showcasing the vital role of biogas in methane reduction, circular economy and the clean energy transition. Please come and meet us.