Collaborating to improve our understanding of methane emissions along the natural gas value chain

Methane is the second most abundant greenhouse gas in the atmosphere and is an important target for emissions reductions to minimize impact to the environment. Reducing methane will also have positive effects on reducing coincidentally emitted VOCs which are precursors to ozone and photochemical smog formation.

The Collaboratory to Advance Methane Science (CAMS) is a research collaboration on methane science directed by some of the world’s top leaders in energy development and administered by GTI Energy, a leading research, development, and training organization.

IMPROVE UNDERSTANDING

To better inform opportunities for emission reduction, the Collaboratory advances the science of methane emissions through robust, peer-reviewed research. It harmonizes results across research areas and measurement methodologies.

pressure gauge next to natural gas regulator

RESEARCH EMISSIONS

The research studies technologies to improve the detection of leaks, identification of specific sources, and characterization of emissions to ensure mitigation strategies are most effective. The findings of sound, transparent data and analyses are made available to all through publication in scientific journals.

male field worker checking pressure gauge

DISCOVER OPPORTUNITIES

The initiative works to reduce methane emissions and carbon footprint along the entire value chain, from production to end use—including detection, measurement, and quantification.

Our Purpose

Through scientific research and technology evaluation, CAMS explores, discovers, and quantifies methane emissions, and develops solutions and approaches to reduce emissions.

Our Approach

What We Do

Advance methane emissions controls
Effectively leverage finite resources for scientific studies to address methane emissions along the entire value chain, from production to end use
Produce real-time, accurate, on-the-ground data to effectively reduce emissions and inform analysis, regulations, and policy development
Publish project results in peer-reviewed scientific journals and engage in communications initiatives to build public awareness of our results and conclusions to establish CAMS as a thought leader on these issues

Why It Matters

Maximizing the environmental benefits of natural gas requires reducing methane emissions across the entire value chain. Advancing the science of methane emissions will better inform debate.

CAMS research characterizes methane emissions and identifies specific sources, so mitigation strategies are most effective. Results from CAMS research has the potential to lead to technology solutions, better work practices, and new equipment designs to manage methane emissions.

Demonstrable advancements in the environmental performance of natural gas bolster the fuel’s reputation as a sustainable, safe energy source, and the collaboration reinforces industry’s long-term commitment to environmental performance.

CAMS research contributes to:

Improved estimates for methane emissions – statistically valid data and tools
Improved measurement, quantification, prioritization, and mitigation
Reconciliation of data
Cross-sector research and planning that is complementary rather than redundant