How We Measure Carbon Emissions

Carbon neutrality is a hot topic these days! I got curious about the technology we use to measure carbon emissions, so I did some digging. Here’s a breakdown of the key tools and technologies being used worldwide to keep track of carbon emissions, including some cool stuff developed right here in South Korea.

 

• carbon neutrality 탄소 중립
• carbon emissions 탄소 배출
• breakdown 설명분석
• key tools 주요 도구
• keep track of 추적하다, 기록하다
• cool stuff 멋진 것들
• developed 개발된

 

 

1. Gas Analyzers

• Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems (CEMS): These systems are made by companies like Thermo Fisher Scientific in the U.S. CEMS are used in factories and power plants to monitor emissions in real-time. They analyze the gases coming out of smokestacks to measure CO2 levels. This system is still cutting-edge and complies with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations.
• Infrared Gas Analyzer: The IR-8400D model by Infrared Industries (USA) uses non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) technology to precisely measure CO2 levels. It’s a reliable and widely-used model in many industries.

2. Satellites and Remote Sensing Devices

• OCO-2 (Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2): Developed by NASA, this satellite monitors carbon dioxide levels in Earth’s atmosphere with high resolution. It’s crucial for tracking CO2 emissions globally and provides vital data for climate change research.
• GOSAT (Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite): Operated by Japan’s JAXA, GOSAT measures CO2 and methane (CH4) levels in the atmosphere. It’s still actively providing up-to-date data and plays a key role in climate research.

3. Portable Emission Measurement Systems (PEMS)

• PEMS are mainly used to measure CO2 emissions from vehicles and portable equipment in real-time. Companies like Horiba (Japan) and AVL (Austria) are leading manufacturers in this field. These systems are essential for assessing vehicle emissions and collecting accurate data on the go.

4. Carbon Emission Monitoring Technology Developed in South Korea

• GEO-KOMPSAT-2B (Chollian Satellite 2B): Developed in South Korea, this satellite is designed to monitor air pollution and climate change. The satellite carries the GEMS (Geostationary Environment Monitoring Spectrometer), which is used to monitor air pollutants across Asia in real-time. It’s still operational and providing accurate, crucial data.
• Portable Emission Measurement Systems (PEMS): South Korea’s Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) has developed PEMS technology that measures CO2 and other emissions from vehicles and portable equipment in real-time. This technology is crucial for collecting accurate data during actual driving conditions, helping to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

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Measuring carbon emissions is a key part of tackling climate change. Whether it's advanced equipment from the U.S. and Japan or cutting-edge technology from South Korea, these tools are essential for monitoring emissions accurately. They play a vital role in protecting our environment and ensuring a sustainable future.