Fiona O’Connor is a Science Fellow at the Met Office, and a Senior Lecturer in the Global Systems Institute, University of Exeter, UK.
Fiona has over 25 years experience in atmospheric composition and climate research, contributing to Earth system model development and understanding climate-composition interactions, and climate mitigation. She led the UK contribution to the Aerosol and Chemistry Model Intercomparison Project (AerChemMIP) for CMIP6 and is co-chair of AerChemMIP2 for CMIP7.
A particular area of interest for Fiona are short-lived climate forcers and their role in both air quality and climate and the benefits and tradeoffs associated with emissions reductions.
Plenary 5, Friday 4 July 10.10-12.30: Geoengineering and the concept of responsible climate intervention
Methane Removal Technologies: Opportunities, Risks, and Climate Policy Implications
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that has contributed significantly to global warming since the pre-industrial period and remains a critical factor in reaching Paris Agreement climate goals. Reducing methane emissions can slow near-term warming, delay peak global temperatures, and deliver substantial air quality co-benefits. Despite the availability of cost-effective mitigation options, atmospheric methane continues to rise. In response, there is growing interest in atmospheric methane removal as a complementary strategy to emissions reductions. This presentation will provide an overview of emerging methane removal technologies, their potential benefits and risks, and the broader implications for climate policy and environmental management.