Hunga Tonga Eruption Cloud Found to Unexpectedly Destroy Methane

Scientists have discovered that the cloud from the January 2022 Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcanic eruption unexpectedly destroyed some of its own methane pollution. Satellite observations revealed high formaldehyde levels in the plume, indicating this chemical reaction. This finding could significantly alter current methane pollution estimates and inspire novel approaches to slow near-term global warming, suggesting natural processes might accelerate methane destruction and offering new climate strategy avenues.