The concepts described on these pages are words and expressions used in statistics with a specific, limited meaning. In everyday speech the word may have a different meaning. In connection with each definition you can find information about which sets of statistics use the concept.

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Methane (CH4)

Methane is generated when organic matter such as manure, waste water sludge or biodegradable waste is fermented under anaerobic conditions. Methane emissions from landfill sites are the most important single source of CH4.



Validity of the definition

  • 1 January 1900 - 31 October 2023

Source organisation

  • Tilastokeskus

Methane is produced in connection with the digestion and decomposition of organic substances, e.g. manure, wastewater sludge or biodegradable waste. In addition, it is generated in livestock enteric fermentation, which is the largest source of methane emissions in the greenhouse gas inventory. In addition to the above, methane is generated in incomplete combustion and evaporates in the processing, transfer and distribution of natural gas and biogas.



Statistics using the definition

Validity of the definition

  • Valid

Source organisation

  • Tilastokeskus

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