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Updated: Mar 28, 2026
08:18
Design and Use of a Full Flow Sampling System FFS for the Quantification of Methane Emissions
Published on: June 12, 2016
17.5K
A global methane observation system to track climate feedbacks for verifiable climate impact
Jennifer D Watts1, Elsa Ordway2, Sparkle L Malone3
1Woodwell Climate Research Center, Falmouth, MA, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 26, 2026
Summary
Expanding methane measurements from natural sources is crucial. More data is needed to accurately understand these significant atmospheric methane contributors.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Atmospheric Chemistry
- Geosciences
Background:
- Methane is a potent greenhouse gas.
- Natural methane sources are significant contributors to atmospheric concentrations.
- Current methane measurement networks require expansion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the necessity for increased methane measurements.
- To emphasize the importance of quantifying natural methane emissions.
- To advocate for enhanced monitoring of methane sources.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing methane measurement techniques.
- Analysis of current data gaps in natural methane source monitoring.
- Synthesis of scientific literature on methane budgets.
Main Results:
- Existing methane measurement networks are insufficient.
- Natural methane sources are under-quantified.
- Significant expansion of methane monitoring is required.
Conclusions:
- Substantial expansion of methane measurements, especially from natural sources, is essential.
- Improved quantification of natural methane emissions is critical for climate modeling.
- Further research and investment in methane monitoring infrastructure are needed.
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