The IEA Greenhouse Gas programme is the principal international collaboration on R&D into mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions. It is actively supported by 16 countries as well as 3 industrial sponsors. The programme undertakes analysis of options for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels, disseminates the results and develops targets for future R&D. In its first 4 years of work, the programme has carried out 24 separate studies, initially focusing on technologies to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from power generation. Assessments cover technologies to capture, store and utilise greenhouse gases. The first life-cycle analysis of power generation incorporating carbon dioxide removal has been completed and valuable lessons learnt about methods suitable for this purpose. More recently work has begun on mitigation of other greenhouse gases and reduction of carbon dioxide emissions from different sources. In addition, targets for research are identified and plans are developed for demonstration of appropriate technologies. A variety of publications are produced, reporting results of this work, as well as stimulating dialogue about greenhouse issues through the medium of a regular newsletter.
