Episode 17: Policy and Politics: What’s Next on the Methane Regulation Front?

In this episode of Methane Talks, we are joined by James Turitto, Director, Global Campaigns, Methane Pollution Prevention at Clean Air Task Force (CATF). 

Clean Air Task Force (CATF) is an environmental organization dedicated to addressing climate change with practical, evidence-based solutions. For over 25 years, CATF has championed innovative technologies and policy changes to drive a zero-emissions, high-energy future at an affordable cost. Recognizing the complexity of the climate crisis, the organization takes a pragmatic approach, challenging conventional wisdom and exploring all viable options to reduce harmful emissions, with a commitment to intellectual integrity and scientific rigor.

James Turitto joined CATF in October 2020 to work with environmental organizations, civil society groups, media, industry, and government officials on methane emissions reduction worldwide. Based in Nashville, TN, James is currently focused on methane abatement in the oil and gas industry in Europe with some work in Africa and South America. James’ work documenting methane emissions has been featured in news outlets around the world, including Reuters, Bloomberg, Financial Times, Boston Globe, the BBC, Die Zeit, Der Spiegel, La Repubblica, Neue Zürcher Zeitung, and Climate Home News.

Prior to joining CATF, James worked as a Senior Research Manager at MIT’s Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) from 2013 to 2020, where he led efforts to promote transparency in social science research and organized regular training on research methods in Kenya, India, and the US for a global cadre of staff. He also served as a Senior Program Officer on a USAID-funded democracy and governance program in South Sudan from 2010 to 2013 for the International Republican Institute. James has a Masters of Arts in International Affairs from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Vermont.

Listen as he shares insights into his somewhat humurous journey into methane, the launch of the Fossil Fuel Regulatory Programme (FFRP), and the challenges of global standardization - highlighting the shift from prescriptive to performance-based regulations and the need for realistic, enforceable policies. 

Learn more about methane mitigation roadmaps, strategies, and the current regulatory landscape at our upcoming events: 

Methane Mitigation Technology & Innovation Summit
June 2-4, 2025 | Austin, TX

Methane Mitigation Canada Summit
September 23-25, 2025 | Calgary, AB

Methane Mitigation America Summit
December 2-4, 2025 | Houston, TX

Methane Mitigation Europe Summit
2026 | Amsterdam