Methane (CH₄) is released into our atmosphere through a combination of naturally occurring and anthropogenic activities. From oil and gas production and processing to agriculture, waste decomposition, wetlands, and more, methane emissions can be attributed to a variety of sources. Methane is a flammable gas with a low Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) of 4.4%, but its impact on global warming is what is currently driving increased attention.

On a global scale, methane is the second largest contributor to global warming after carbon dioxide. It also has a higher global warming potential than CO₂. In fact, a given quantity of methane can trap up to 28 times more heat in the earth’s atmosphere than the same quantity of CO₂. The level of global methane emission and its impact on climate change makes it one of the chief concerns of our time. But since methane is removed naturally from the atmosphere faster than CO₂, by reducing CH₄ emissions we make swift progress in combatting climate change.

A sizeable reduction in methane emissions could result in a drastically different climate picture through the 2030s and beyond. In line with the Global Methane Pledge, which aims to achieve a 30% reduction in methane emissions by 2030, government organizations around the world are taking steps to make this a reality. Part of this action plan includes the launch of UNEP’s Methane Alert and Response System (MARS), a pioneering satellite-based alert system aimed at detecting large emission sources on a global scale. It collects data from multiple satellites and issues alerts to countries and companies when emissions are detected.

Satellite-based methane measurement is one part of what is known as “top-down” monitoring, providing a ‘big picture’ snapshot of emissions. As sunlight travels through the earth’s atmosphere, methane “absorbs” certain infrared bands. Satellites use a spectrometer to detect this change in light and convert it into a measurement of atmospheric methane in the air column. These satellites (such as CarbonMapper, the European Space Agency’s TROPOMI instrument, and the Environmental Defense Fund’s MethaneSat) are particularly useful for gathering data on areas of high methane emission known as “super-emitters”. The more information that governments and environmental organizations gather on these hotspots, the easier it is to institute an effective mitigation plan. However, satellite instruments can’t carry this burden alone, and ground-based methane monitoring technology remains a crucial piece of the puzzle.

To determine precise leak locations and localized emission sources, ground-based remote sensors are needed. Fixed sensor networks, optical gas imaging (OGI) cameras and drone-based sensors provide actionable information in real-time. This enables sites to efficiently perform leak detection and repair (LDAR) operations to mitigate methane leaks. Such sensor technologies are deployed across facilities or at the perimeter and can be deployed with wind sensors to locate and quantify emission rates using sophisticated software tools.

Aeroqual’s Methane Analyzer Module features a proprietary Gas Sensitive Semiconductor (GSS) sensor in a patent pending design that performs like a long path length optical instrument – but in a compact, lower power, more cost effective package. Available in our perimeter monitoring platforms, the Aeroqual AQS 1 and AQM 65, the Methane Analyzer Module produces highly accurate data with low zero and span drift under oilfield and landfill conditions. By measuring methane concentration at the source using real-time technology, Aeroqual’s ground-based sensor systems facilitate quick action. Fast response times are critical to maintain regulatory compliance when faced with a potential exceedance.

Satellite-based monitoring has an important role in identifying “super-emitters” and alerting companies to issues, but ground-based measurement is also important for supporting the LDAR actions that actually mitigate methane leaks. These technologies complement one another and contribute to the overall goal of methane emission reduction. Aeroqual’s methane monitoring products play a vital role in providing accurate, real-time information about your site and supporting compliance or LDAR protocols.

To speak with an expert and find out more about our range of compatible methane monitoring solutions, get in touch here!