ENERGY TRANSITION
Methane Data to Action Campaign: Reducing methane leaks through satellite data
Context and challenges
Methane is 80 times more potent than CO2 at trapping heat in the atmosphere, according to the UN Environment Program (UNEP), and can, actually, be tracked by satellite.
Observed Oil & Gas emissions are 70% higher than what is self-reported as methane leaks go unreported and unaddressed.
This year, the International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) will present the Methane Alert Response System (MARS), and next year, Carbon Mapper and the MethaneSAT will launch satellites that will dramatically improve sensitivity and transparency to track emissions.
Initiative Description
The Global Methane Hub (GMH) was launched in 2021 to support implementing the Global Methane Pledge, through an initial USD 200 Mn contribution from major foundations focusing on climate action, including CIFF, Sequoia, Ikea, High Tide, Quadrature, and Hewlett.
GMH is launching the Data for Methane Action Campaign (DMAC), with an initial investment of USD ~100 Mn to accelerate action from governments, businesses, and other actors to radically reduce methane leaks and drive policy change thanks to satellite data.
In collaboration with philanthropies and the private sector, DMAC will produce and fund a roadmap to operationalize a portfolio of innovative data applications to unlock unprecedented methane action this decade. The initiative also ensures that climate commitments such as Near Zero Methane in Oil & Gas are transparent and implement the EU Import Standards for Methane Intensity in Oil & Gas.