In his first action since being named co-chair of the subnational climate coalition America Is All In, California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a state effort to cut methane pollution with the help of satellite technology.
The technology involves satellite-mounted methane sensors that send data to enable the state to locate and monitor large emissions of methane that could otherwise go undetected. This data will allow state and local agencies to work together with industry to stop the leaks.
“Decades of progress to protect public health is on the line as the Trump Administration works to roll back critical environmental protections. California isn’t having it,” Newsom said. “Thanks to our state investment, we’re using satellite technology to detect methane leaks as they happen. With this new data, we’ll be able to move faster to cut harmful methane pollution—protecting Californians and the clean air we’ve fought so hard for.”
Methane is a clear, odorless gas released from landfills, oil and gas operations, and livestock facilities, as well as natural sources such as wetlands. It is a major pollutant that is 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide for near-term warming of the planet. Methane emissions are responsible for about a quarter of global carbon pollution. Controlling methane leaks helps speed up the state’s efforts to protect the environment.
The governor’s announcement comes on his first day as co-chair of America Is All In, an expansive coalition in support of subnational climate action. As co-chair, he will work with other state and local leaders to advance innovative solutions such as methane-detecting technology.
How It Works
The satellite project and the data acquired by it is made possible by a $100 million investment from the state’s cap-and-trade program. Already, one satellite has been launched, with up to seven more to be deployed.
The state will maintain a database and web portal to coordinate and document mitigation actions. While California does not own these satellites, state agencies will be able to select specific regions for observation. This data will also be available for communities to view methane mitigation efforts and to further education and outreach.
“This satellite project to monitor methane is unique for a state effort that will help us better identify sources of pollution Californians are already seeing and feeling the intensifying impacts from firsthand,” said California Air Resources Board Chair Liane Randolph. “The effort provides information that is much closer to real time than the data now available. It allows us to get ahead of one of the major contributors to what has become an immediate threat to public health and the environment. It also provides an opportunity for California to work with other jurisdictions which want to develop their own, similar satellite methane monitoring and reduction programs.”