The greenhouse gas footprint of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exported from the United States

Published January 13, 2026

Publication by Robert W. Howarth, American biogeochemist and environmental scientist, professor at Cornell University

Abstract: “Liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports from the United States have risen dramatically since the LNG-export ban was lifted in 2016, and the United States is now the world’s largest exporter. This LNG is produced largely from shale gas. Production of shale gas, as well as liquefaction to make LNG and LNG transport by tanker, is energy-intensive, which contributes significantly to the LNG greenhouse gas footprint. The production and transport of shale gas emits a substantial amount of methane as well, and liquefaction and tanker transport of LNG can further increase methane emissions.”

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