S5 EP9: Orbiting the Truth: Space-Based Emissions Reporting
Series 5
In this episode we’re going to be discussing emissions reporting. Together, our panel unpacks the critical role of satellite data in bridging long-standing gaps in emissions reporting – from overcoming the limitations of self-reporting and data delays to enabling more granular, real-time monitoring.
We also explore how space is becoming a vital tool for regulators and policymakers, especially in the lead-up to COP30, where calls for consistent frameworks and greater investment in data-driven enforcement are louder than ever.
Episode Guests
Episode Host
Dallas presents some of television’s most popular factual programmes, his immersive documentaries lift the curtain on our human planet, giving audiences of all ages and backgrounds an exclusive backstage pass to some of the world’s most fascinating stories, ideas and places.
Beyond television, Dallas is an author, speaker, and ambassador for STEM education. He works closely with several major outreach initiatives which help kids across the UK think creatively about technology and innovation. He works internationally with the British Council’s FameLab project, designing and running workshops for early career academics, helping them hone their science communication skills.
Resources
- Environment Agency Methane Action Plan 2024 to 2026 >>
- Blog: Reducing Methane Emissions to Help Combat Climate Change >>
- Methane Monitoring Programme >>
- Blog: Monitoring Methane Emissions from Space >>
- Blog: Methane Satellite Missions Capability Comparison >>
- Blog: Combining Methane Measurement Methods on an Active UK Gas Leak: A Case Study from the UK >>
If you would like any further information on methane monitoring, please reach out to methane.action@environment-agency.gov.uk
Outer Orbit
This bonus episode dives into the crucial role of methane, a gas whose warming potential is 80 times greater than CO2 over a 20-year period, making it a powerful lever for immediate climate action. Host Dallas Campbell is joined by Charlotte Massey of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) to explore how space technology is transforming the fight against emissions.
Charlotte explains how NPL’s measurement science (metrology) ensures the quality and traceability of satellite-derived data, making it fit for purpose for regulation and global decision-making. They discuss the vital work of the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) in developing methane best practices, particularly for facility-scale emissions in the oil and gas sector. Charlotte’s perspective from the frontline of climate science offers a dose of measured optimism: understanding the problem is truly half the solution.
Get in Touch
If you’d like to contact us about any episode of In-Orbit, collaboration opportunities, or to find out more about how we can help your business, please email marketing@sa.catapult.org.uk
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