Google's AI Model Detects Methane Emissions from Space, Spots Over 23,000 More Plumes

Google and NASA have teamed up to develop an AI model that can detect methane emissions from space. The deep-learning model, called MAPL-EMIT, analyzes observations collected by NASA's EMIT instrument and was trained using 3.6 million physics-simulated methane plumes.

The system has been shown to detect 50% more methane plumes than human experts, identifying over 23,000 additional plumes globally. It also detected methane emissions associated with 24 of the world's 25 highest-emitting landfills.

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, with a warming potential approximately 30 times greater than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. Detecting leaks and other major emissions quickly can allow operators and governments to prioritize mitigation efforts at facilities responsible for the largest releases.