Advances in Satellite-Based Methane Monitoring for the Oil and Gas Sector: Global Trends, Governance Strategies, and China’s Response

Methane (CH4), the second most significant greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide, is characterized by its strong short-term radiative forcing, making it a priority target for global climate mitigation efforts. Due to its high emission intensity and strong technical controllability, the oil and gas sector has become a key focus for methane reduction initiatives. This study systematically reviews the current state of global methane emissions, major emission sources, and advances in satellite remote sensing technologies. It also summarizes recent policy developments and legislative measures in Europe and the United States, along with strategic practices of five major international oil and gas companies. The findings indicate that global methane emissions have continued to increase in recent years, with fugitive emissions, venting, and flaring during oil and gas operations being major contributors. Technologically, satellite remote sensing has emerged as a critical tool for identifying methane point sources, estimating emission quantities, and tracking trends at scale. Observation satellites such as Sentinel-5P, GHGSat, and MethaneSAT have continuously improved in monitoring capabilities, spatial resolution, and application scope—facilitating a shift from regional assessments to facility-level quantification. On the policy front, Western countries have strengthened methane governance in the oil and gas industry through legislation, financial incentives, and data transparency, gradually forming institutionalized and operational frameworks that continue to evolve. As a major methane emitter, China has released its Methane Emissions Control Action Plan, but still faces challenges such as insufficient policy specificity, uneven technological capacity, and low data transparency. Moving forward, efforts should focus on setting clear reduction targets, enhancing satellite monitoring capabilities, promoting coordinated industry governance, and drawing on international best practices.