After nearly a decade in development, a new satellite known as MethaneSat is set to launch. Developed by scientists at Harvard and the Environmental Defense Fund, MethaneSat aims to monitor the Earth's methane levels by circling the globe 15 times a day. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas responsible for about 30% of global warming, is a critical focus of this satellite's mission.
The president of the Environmental Defense Fund, Fred Krupp, highlighted the importance of reducing methane pollution, citing its significant impact on global temperatures. The goal is to achieve a 75% reduction in methane emissions from the oil and gas industry over the next five years.
MethaneSat is touted as the most advanced methane-detecting satellite in space, offering a comprehensive view of methane emissions on a large scale. The data collected will be made freely available to the public, enabling governments, companies, and individuals to identify sources of methane emissions and hold accountable those responsible for reducing them.
The launch of MethaneSat has already spurred action, with 50 companies committing to reduce methane pollution by 90% following the announcement of the satellite's impending launch. This data will provide a new level of specificity in pinpointing large methane emitters, potentially driving both companies and governments to take action to lessen their emissions.
The transparency and accountability offered by MethaneSat's data are expected to empower citizens to advocate for climate action and push governments and companies to act on reducing methane emissions. By making methane emissions visible and quantifiable, MethaneSat aims to play a crucial role in addressing climate change and holding polluters accountable for their environmental impact.
