Golden State Today

California has announced a new satellite project to monitor and reduce methane emissions, an initiative spearheaded by Governor Gavin Newsom. This effort is part of the state's strategy to combat pollution using advanced technology amid federal rollbacks on environmental protections. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Trump Administration is reconsidering measures designed to curb greenhouse gas emissions, including methane.

Governor Newsom, who recently became Co-Chair of the America Is All In climate coalition, emphasized the importance of this initiative. "Decades of progress to protect public health is on the line as the Trump Administration works to roll back critical environmental protections. California isn’t having it," he stated. He highlighted that state investment in satellite technology will allow for real-time detection of methane leaks, facilitating faster response times and safeguarding public health.

Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is responsible for about 25% of global carbon pollution. It is released from various sources such as landfills and oil operations. Controlling these emissions aligns with California's broader environmental goals.

The satellite project is funded by a $100 million investment from California’s Cap-and-Trade program. Currently, one satellite has been launched with plans for up to seven more. This initiative allows state agencies to select specific regions for monitoring and provides data accessible to communities for educational purposes.

Liane Randolph, Chair of the California Air Resources Board (CARB), praised the project: “This satellite project to monitor methane is unique for a state effort that will help us better identify sources of pollution Californians are already seeing and feeling the intensifying impacts from firsthand.”

The announcement follows California's ongoing commitment to reducing global methane emissions and its role in international efforts like the Global Methane Pledge.