MethaneSat: A Revolutionary Tool for Holding Polluters Accountable
A groundbreaking satellite called MethaneSat is set to launch from California onboard a SpaceX rocket, aiming to combat the global climate crisis by identifying and exposing the worst methane polluters in the oil and gas industry. Developed by the US NGO Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) in partnership with the New Zealand Space Agency, MethaneSat will provide an unprecedented near-comprehensive global view of methane leaks from the oil and gas sector.
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is responsible for a staggering 30% of global heating, driving the ongoing climate crisis. Leaks from the fossil fuel industry are a major source of these emissions, making it crucial to address this issue to curb temperature rises. MethaneSat’s high-resolution data will cover wider areas than existing satellites, allowing for the detection of smaller leaks that contribute substantially to the total emissions.
The cost of addressing methane leaks is usually very modest, and the oil and gas industry holds the knowledge and resources to take action. By accurately pinpointing and quantifying these leaks, MethaneSat aims to hold both good and bad actors accountable. The data collected by MethaneSat will be made public, enabling stakeholders
