SUSTAINABLE USE OF METHANE IN THE EUROPEAN UNION. SELECTED SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS.

Purpose: the article focuses on the issue of sustainable use of methane in the European Union. In this area - and it should be particularly emphasized - the EU attaches great importance to the issue of reducing methane emissions, due to its significant role in climate change and the need to achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals. The importance and significance of these activities is emphasized by the fact that the strictest standards in the world regarding the release of greenhouse gases, including methane from the mining industry, are in force and planned in the EU. In the face of such environmental goals of the European Community countries, it is crucial, apart from the economic factors, to take into account the social aspects highlighted in the article, without which rational shaping of the new transformation policy cannot take place. Methodology: the theses presented in the article verified using the following methods: literature review, critical analysis of literature, dogmatic and legal analysis, analysis and comparison of documents. Results: it seems that implementing comprehensive strategies for the sustainable use of methane in the EU will require not only political will and investment, but also continuous monitoring, evaluation and adaptation of actions based on the latest scientific and technological achievements. Only through cooperation and joint efforts can the goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment be achieved. Originality: the sustainable use of methane can not only contribute to achieving the EU's climate and energy goals, but also have a positive impact on human health, environmental quality and the economic stability of regions affected by mining activities. Therefore, it is not only a challenge, but also an opportunity to create a more fair, innovative and future-oriented economy that takes into account the needs of both current and future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]