Enabling accessible and actionable data
We are filling data gaps on methane and carbon dioxide emissions by leveraging remote sensing to deliver data that is precise, timely, and accessible.
Data platform
Our public data platform offers multi-sensor emissions data from methane and CO2 super-emitters across the globe. Facility operators, researchers, journalists, nonprofits and regulators are using our portal to mitigate emissions on the ground, gain insights into regional and sector-specific emissions, drive research, and inform policy.
The Carbon Mapper data portal also offers a public API, making it easier for researchers and developers to integrate this data into their own systems and applications.
Remote sensing technology
We use satellites and aircraft to detect, pinpoint, and quantify methane and CO2 point sources at the scale of individual facilities.
For several years, Carbon Mapper has been conducting airborne surveys using advanced remote sensing technology to lay the foundation for the scaling of an operational satellite data that can drive localized action, globally. These surveys have demonstrated that when decision makers have access to data, mitigation actions can be taken quickly and often cost-effectively.
To scale this work, the Carbon Mapper Coalition is working to develop and deploy two satellites capable of detecting, pinpointing, and quantifying methane and CO2 super-emitters at the scale of individual facilities. These satellites are designed to help fill gaps in our current understanding of methane and CO2 emissions. They’re the first step toward a larger goal to build a full constellation capable of high-frequency, operational monitoring.
Carbon Mapper also routinely analyzes data from NASA’s Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) instrument on board the International Space Station. This supports Carbon Mapper’s direct observations and helps make global emissions data visible and actionable.
Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech
Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech
Leading on innovative science
As part of our goal to enable science-based action, we’re transparent about our processes and the science behind our data. We’ve conducted controlled tests, and we publish peer-reviewed studies and present at academic and educational conferences throughout the year.
Key areas of focus
Advancing scientific research
We advance cutting-edge scientific research and understanding of methane emissions, which includes publishing our findings and leading a research program.
Delivering transparency
We strive to build trust in our data through transparent, repeatable, and validated methods for emissions detection and quantification. Read our published and peer-reviewed papers and discover more about our technology and scientific methods on our resource hub.
Driving best practices in emissions science
We work with leading scientists, researchers, and industry experts to use direct observations to support alignment on global, regional, and local emissions standards and frameworks. This helps people better assess and use our data for mitigation.
Unlocking mitigation action
We collaborate with industry, governments, NGOs, communities, and other stakeholders to develop and support emission reduction solutions that are based on science.
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Direct mitigation by operators
The data we provide is designed to support direct mitigation action by those on the ground — supporting operators in their efforts to quickly detect and repair methane leaks and verify those reductions.
Access to this data can also help operators prioritize investments and inform best practices in their operations.
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Regulators and agencies
Access to localized emissions data can help inform regulatory efforts to reduce methane emissions, identify opportunities for effective emission reduction policies, and verify mitigation success.
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Communities
Methane is sometimes co-emitted with harmful air pollutants that can affect community health and safety. Our publicly available data can help communities discover potentially harmful events and identify where mitigation action can address public health risks.
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Other nongovernmental organizations
Data alone isn’t enough. We work with nonprofit organizations and other stakeholders to get emissions data into the hands of those who can use it to drive emissions reductions.
Advancing action through education and insights
One of our priorities is helping people understand current emissions challenges and the role remote sensing can play in monitoring and reducing emissions. We apply our expertise in interpreting and translating our findings, offering policy-relevant insights and tools, and provide educational resources and information to improve emissions monitoring and support mitigation solutions.