Coalbed Methane Outreach Program (CMOP)
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Get the latest information about CMOP resources and events related to mitigating methane emissions.
EPA's Coalbed Methane Outreach Program (CMOP) is a voluntary program with the goal of reducing methane emissions from coal mining activities.
Our mission is to promote the profitable recovery, utilization, and mitigation of coal mine methane (CMM), a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change when emitted into the atmosphere. Since 1994, we have cooperated with the coal mining sector in the United States to reduce CMM emissions. Currently, EPA’s CMOP is aware of 19 active and 57 abandoned (closed) coal mines in the United States that host methane mitigation projects. Active coal mines may host multiple projects because they generally release larger volumes of methane. Abandoned coal mines typically release smaller volumes, and usually contribute to one project.
Coal mining activities release methane, which is stored in the cleats and micropores of coal, when coal-bearing seams are disturbed. In coal mines, methane is a mining hazard because it is explosive at certain concentrations and its accumulation can result in a mine atmosphere deficient in oxygen. When released, methane is a precursor to ground-level ozone, a harmful pollutant that can irritate the airways. In the atmosphere, methane is a powerful greenhouse gas that is more powerful than carbon dioxide. Technologies can help capture methane from coal mining before it is released and use it as an energy source.
Learn about CMM
Mitigation Resources
Program Information
Updated Coal Mine Methane Units Converter
Converts methane (CH4) emissions to metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e) and a variety of other measurement units and greenhouse gas (GHG) equivalencies.
Basics of Coal Mine Methane Online Training
This self-directed, online training was developed by U.S. EPA in support of voluntary activities to reduce methane emissions.
Updated Map of U.S. Coal Mine Methane Current Projects and Potential Opportunities
Identify current CMM projects and potential opportunities at U.S. coal mines, which now includes Tribal lands and Alaska village data.
Coal Mine Methane Cash Flow Model
Use the Excel-based tool to evaluate the potential economic viability of recovering and utilizing CMM from a specific project site.