UNEP IMEO Partners with Carbon Mapper for Satellite Methane Detection and Rapid Response

The UN Environment Programme's International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) has partnered with Carbon Mapper to expand satellite-based methane detection and rapid response for the oil and gas sector. Carbon Mapper will provide high-resolution emissions data from Planet Labs' Tanager satellite to IMEO's Methane Alert and Response System (MARS), enabling direct notifications to governments and operators of confirmed super-emitter events. The Tanager satellite can detect methane leaks as low as 100 kg per hour, far lower than most public satellites, allowing for faster and more frequent alerts. This partnership aims to scale up methane mitigation efforts globally, supporting the Global Methane Pledge. MARS already integrates data from over 35 satellites and has helped mitigate over 40 major emission events with a climate impact equivalent to 23 million gasoline-powered cars for a year. Carbon Mapper's data has also been used in California's Satellite Methane Program since May 2025, addressing 26 large emissions events. The collaboration includes training, tools, and engagement with industry and government stakeholders to turn data into action.