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2. Research scientist fine-tunes greenhouse gas measuring instruments in Washington D.C. area.
3. National Strategy aims to unify GHG measurement efforts across federal government and beyond.
Anna Karion, a research scientist with NIST, is fine-tuning greenhouse gas measuring instruments on telecommunications towers in Washington D.C. as part of the Northeast Corridor Urban Testbed Project. The data collected from these towers, part of the AmeriFlux project, helps understand GHG movement globally. This work is supported by the Greenhouse Gas Monitoring and Measurement Interagency Working Group.
GHGs, like CO2, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases, trap heat in Earth’s atmosphere. Human activities, primarily fossil fuel use, contribute to increased CO2 levels. Tracking GHG emissions and sinks is crucial for understanding climate change. The U.S. has committed to net-zero emissions by 2050, requiring accurate monitoring and modeling of GHGs.
The National Strategy aims to standardize GHG monitoring and analysis across agencies and organizations. By using various tools like satellites, airborne sensors, and surface networks, researchers can better quantify GHG quantities. Phase I focuses on expanding GHG testing sites and establishing a multi-agency U.S. GHG Center to enhance collaboration and data sharing.
The efforts of federal agencies, like DOE, NASA, NOAA, and NIST, are vital in combating GHG emissions and addressing climate change. By working together and utilizing advanced technology, a comprehensive understanding of GHGs and their impact on our environment can be achieved.