Japan Leverages Satellite Technology to Aid Developing Nations in Greenhouse Gas Monitoring at COP29
A crucial challenge in achieving global climate goals is the accurate measurement ofgreenhouse gas emissions, particularly in data-scarce nations. Japan is addressing this by offering assistance using its advanced GOSAT satellite technology, as highlighted at COP29 in Baku.
The 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is currently underway in Baku, Azerbaijan. On November 14th, Japan’s Ministry of the Environment (MOE) held a workshop showcasing its innovative approach to supporting developing countries in monitoring their greenhouse gas emissions. Theinitiative leverages data from Japan’s Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT), a sophisticated instrument capable of measuring atmospheric concentrations of key greenhouse gases from space.
Under the Paris Agreement, nations are obligated to set emission reduction targets and reporttheir emissions data. However, many countries, especially those with vast territories or limited resources, face significant challenges in collecting and analyzing the necessary data. This lack of capacity hinders accurate emission reporting and effective climate action.
At the MOE workshop, a researcher from Mongolia highlighted the nation’s difficulties in ground-basedgreenhouse gas monitoring due to its expansive landscape and limited expertise. He emphasized the crucial role of the collaboration with Japanese researchers, utilizing GOSAT data to estimate carbon dioxide emissions. This collaboration demonstrates the practical application of space technology in addressing a critical climate challenge.
Japan’s assistance extends beyond Mongolia. The MOE confirmed that similar support is being provided to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, utilizing the comprehensive data sets acquired by GOSAT. This initiative underscores Japan’s commitment to international climate cooperation and its recognition of the need for equitable access to advanced monitoring technologies.
The use of GOSAT data offers several advantages. Its wide-areacoverage allows for efficient monitoring of emissions across vast territories, overcoming the limitations of ground-based measurements. Furthermore, the satellite data provides a consistent and objective measure, minimizing potential biases associated with localized monitoring efforts.
This initiative represents a significant step towards bridging the data gap in greenhouse gas monitoring. By providing developing nationswith access to advanced technology and expertise, Japan is contributing to a more accurate and comprehensive global understanding of emissions, facilitating more effective climate action. The success of this program could serve as a model for other developed nations to support developing countries in their efforts to meet their climate commitments. Future research should focus on expanding thistype of collaborative effort and exploring further applications of satellite technology in climate change mitigation and adaptation.
References:
- NHK World (2023, November 14). COP29：日本宣传用卫星估测排放量的援助举措. [Link to NHK World article – replacewith actual link if available]
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