A New Wave of Geo-Spatial Technologies for Carbon Monitoring and Management

The Paris Agreement calls on all countries to take ambitious action to combat climate change and adapt to its impacts. In order to meet this challenge, we need better data on greenhouse gas emissions and carbon stocks. Geo-spatial technology can help us obtain this data by providing information on the location, magnitude and distribution of carbon dioxide (CO2) sources and sinks. 

There are a number of satellite missions designed to measure CO2, including the Orbiting Carbon Observatory (OCO) mission and the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT). These satellites provide high-quality data that can be used to improve our understanding of the global carbon cycle. 

In addition to satellite data, there is a new generation of airborne sensors that are providing accurate measurements of CO2 at a much higher resolution than ever before. These sensors are mounted on drones, airplanes and balloons, and are providing us with a more detailed picture of emissions from individual power plants, factories and other point sources. 

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The Challenge of Measuring Carbon Dioxide

Accurately measuring carbon dioxide is a challenge because it is a very small molecule that is evenly mixed in the atmosphere. However, scientists have developed sophisticated instruments that can detect very small concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere. 

Satellite instruments measure CO2 by looking at how light from the sun is absorbed by the molecules in the atmosphere. By analysing the spectrum of light that is transmitted back to the satellite, we can obtain information on the concentration and distribution of atmospheric CO2. 

The first satellite mission designed specifically to measure CO2 was the Interferometric Monitor for Greenhouse Gases (IMAGE) mission, which was launched in 1996. Since then, several other satellite missions have been launched, including the Orbiting Carbon Observatory (OCO) mission and the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT). These satellites provide high-quality data that can be used to improve our understanding of the global carbon cycle. 

Ground-based measurements are also important for understanding atmospheric CO2 levels. In particular, measurements from towers located in remote locations such as Siberia or Alaska can provide valuable information about regional variations in atmospheric CO2 levels. 

Geo-spatial technologies are playing an increasingly important role in our fight against climate change. By providing accurate data on greenhouse gas emissions and carbon stocks, these technologies are helping us to better understand the global carbon cycle and take action to reduce emissions.