Hunting Methane Using Satellites: A Guide for Policymakers

Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, over 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide in the short term. Reducing methane emissions is one of the fastest ways to slow global warming, but tracking sources and enforcing reductions has long been a challenge—until now. Thanks to a new generation of space-based instruments, satellites can detect methane leaks in real time, offering unprecedented transparency and accountability.

Our report explains how policymakers can harness satellite data to improve climate policies, enforce emissions regulations, and accelerate methane reduction efforts. It provides a roadmap for integrating these technologies into decision-making, offering practical recommendations for governments, regulators, and industry leaders.

Additional Authors: Frances Reuland, Juan Pablo Escudero, Cara Horowitz