Agricultural methane emission reduction in China: policy evolution, practical challenges and policy recommendations

China has made considerable effort to address methane emissions in the agricultural sector. This paper analyzes the trends in China’s agricultural methane emissions using national greenhouse gas inventory data from 1994 to 2021, identifies key emission sources and reviews relevant policies, while summarizing the practical challenges currently faced in mitigation efforts. The findings reveal that China’s agricultural methane emissions remain high. Although a turning point emerged in 2017, emissions rebounded slightly in 2021 with the recovery of pork production. Rice production, enteric fermentation and manure management are the key agricultural methane emission sources. China has made progress in reducing agricultural methane emissions by integrating climate change policies with green agricultural development initiatives. However, the implementation of these policies must overcome several challenges. The growing food demand will further intensify the pressure on methane reduction. Low adoption rates of existing technologies and limited development of innovative solutions hinder progress toward emission reduction targets. The measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) system remains inadequately developed. Inadequate policy support and financial incentives compromise the sustainability of current efforts. This paper proposes several pathways to promote agricultural methane reduction and support the transition to low-carbon agricultural development. These include strengthening the MRV system, enhancing policy and financial support for emission reduction, advancing research and development, establishing compensation mechanisms for emission reduction, encouraging low-carbon and healthy dietary habits among consumers and strengthening international cooperation.