Context
Recent satellite-based observations indicate that methane emissions from Indian landfills and waste sites are significantly underreported in official estimates.
Prelims Focus (Facts & Static + Current Link)
Methane (CH₄): Greenhouse gas.
Global Warming Potential (GWP): 84× CO₂.
India’s methane profile: ~15% from waste sector.
Major methane sources: Open landfills, dumpsites, sewage outlets.
Mains Focus
Issue
• Dependence on model-based, State-level aggregated data.
• Ground monitoring is costly and difficult to scale.
• Leads to invisible high-emission hotspots.
Significance
• Methane is short-lived but highly potent, enabling rapid climate gains.
• Waste sector offers low-hanging mitigation opportunities.
Role of Technology
• Satellites pinpoint exact emission locations.
• Enable city-level and site-specific intervention.
