Southeast Asia should reconsider its growing reliance on liquefied natural gas (LNG) as it transitions from coal to renewables. Recent research reveals that despite being considered a cleaner alternative, LNG’s upstream emissions, comprising almost two-thirds of its total emissions, bring its overall carbon foot print close to, and potentially exceeding, that of coal. Thorough reviews of energy policies, emissions monitoring, and investments in renewables are recommended, along with a reassessment of financial institutions’ lending policies to align with global net-zero objectives.

This report uncovers critical discrepancies between LNG’s perceived environmental benefits and actual impact while highlighting pathways for positive change.