China is expanding its use of space-based sensors to track carbon dioxide and methane emissions. By moving from traditional bottom-up estimates to top-down satellite monitoring, the country aims to improve the accuracy of its national carbon emissions trading market and verify climate pledges. Recent launches include high-resolution point-source detection instruments on the Chinese space station and specialized satellites for monitoring forest carbon sinks. These tools provide the data needed to track the global carbon cycle and ensure more precise carbon accounting for industrial emitters.
