Hunting for Methane Monsters: measurement, reporting and verification of greenhouse gas emissions

Methane is a greenhouse gas emitted from coal mines, oil and gas wells, landfills, wetlands and the agriculture sector. Methane emissions are the second largest contributor to climate change and it is more potent in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide (CO2). This means there are potential “quick wins” in targeting methane reductions early in the decarbonisation process.

Satellite data of total-column methane concentration is being used to estimate methane emissions on a global scale. Recent media headlines suggest that methane emissions from the oil & gas and coal mining sectors could be underestimated.

Our pod today is going to explore satellites, methane measurement methods and the future of methane emissions.