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Growth in population and industries is linked to the increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases
(GHGs), such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide. CH4 emissions are
important, since their global warming potential is 21 times higher than that of CO2. Almost all the
countries have identifi ed sources that are potential CH4 emitters, and wastewater is one of them.
Inventory estimates are prepared considering the Tier I approach based on the Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) guidelines for the estimation of CH4 emissions from wastewater.
The estimates provide an insight into the quantum of CH4 emission from wastewater handling
in India. This study indicates increasing quantity of CH4 gas emissions from both domestic and
industrial wastewaters during 1980-2008. Emission estimates have uncertainties due to many
variables involved. Reduction in uncertainties is achieved through increased inputs of primary and
secondary data. This article discusses GHG emission with special references to CH4 market based
on incentives, such as Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) that provides opportunities for
developing countries to improve upon existing wastewater handling and infrastructure.