MethaneSAT: Satellite to pinpoint global methane emissions

The new satellite, recently launched in California, detects and measures methane emissions with unprecedented precision, writes Stephen Cadogan.

MethaneSAT. Picture: Environmental Defence Fund

New Zealand has looked to the skies for a better understanding of agricultural methane.

Like Ireland, due to its large agriculture sector and little industrialisation, methane accounts for much of New Zealand's emissions. While methane from agriculture is estimated at 25% of Ireland's emissions, its share is 43% in New Zealand.