The potential of CO2 satellite monitoring for climate governance: A review

Good-quality CO2 emission data are fundamental for effective climate policy and governance. Data manipulation should be deterred, while developing countries are generally weaker than developed countries in compiling bottom-up CO2 emission inventories due to less adequate data collection capacity. This paper assesses the capabilities of CO2 satellites as objective, independent, potentially low-cost and external data sources for monitoring energy-related anthropogenic CO2 emissions at regional/national, megacity and point-source geographical scales. After overviewing all major CO2 satellites, SCIAMACHY, GOSAT and OCO-2 are focused on due to their wider research applications and higher CO2 sensitivity in total column measurements that include near surface emissions. Nighttime light satellite data for proxy CO2 monitoring are also brought into comparison to distinguish the importance of direct CO2 satellite monitoring. Studies are reviewed from the perspectives of spatial and temporal capability and accuracy to comprehend the current statuses of applications, assess the strengths and weaknesses of research methods, investigate major challenges and propose suggestions for future progress. We conclude that CO2 satellite monitoring can strengthen the data foundation for implementing international climate treaties and domestic climate policies.

Automated summary

This paper evaluates the capabilities of CO2 satellites as objective, independent, potentially low-cost and external data sources for monitoring energy-related anthropogenic CO2 emissions. Major CO2 satellites like SCIAMACHY, GOSAT, and OCO-2 are focused on due to their wider research applications and higher CO2 sensitivity.