Methane Leaks from Dormant Wells are Seven Times Higher Than Reported

Photo: Provincial Archives of Alberta. Imperial Leduc No. 1 oil well, Leduc, Alberta Provincial Archives of Alberta, P2721.

McGill Study Finds Methane Leaks from Dormant Oil and Gas Wells Are Seven Times Higher Than Reported

New research from McGill University reveals that methane emissions from Canada’s inactive oil and gas wells are dramatically underreported by a factor of seven. The study, based on direct measurements from nearly 500 wells, shows that a small number of unplugged gas wells are responsible for the vast majority of emissions, highlighting a transparent and efficient target for climate action.

The findings also show that emission drivers vary widely by province, likely due to differences in policy and operational practices rather than geology. With over 425,000 inactive wells across the country, researchers say smarter monitoring and repurposing of high-emitting sites for clean energy could help close a major gap in Canada’s climate strategy.

“We measured the highest methane emission rate from a non-producing oil and gas well ever reported in Canada.”

— Dr. Mary Kang, Associate Professor, Civil Engineering, McGill University

Announcement from McGill University →