California Acquires 7 Monitors to Measure Greenhouse Gas Concentrations

California, being the third largest state in the US is also its most populous. In spite of the severe economic crisis the state suffered in 2009, California has continued to underscore its interest in doing its part for the environment by helping minimize greenhouse gas emissions in the state.

The latest move in this direction…

Is the acquisition of seven monitors that measure greenhouse gas concentrations in the air statewide, purchased at $50,000 each!

These monitors,

Made by a company called Picarro, have so far been sold mostly to scientists and government agencies for research purposes. This however underlines a shift in this practice and a growing interest of the state in making a tangible contribution towards addressing a global environmental concern.

What’s special about these monitors is that…

Rather than taking only a one-time sample, they can continuously monitor the composition of the air and thereby determine its quality.

This video shows the amazing capabilities of the Picarro greenhouse gas emissions measurement system. The video shows actual data captured during drives at freeway speeds and flights over Northern California. The large yellow spikes show enormous methane emission plumes coming from agricultural operations and settling ponds. Picarro is a leading maker of gas and stable isotope analyzers serving atmospheric and soil scientists, hydrologists, food safety, regulatory, carbon markets and environmental justice customers.

California,

Has previously set statewide targets with regard to reducing these greenhouse gas emissions. To begin with, the Picarro monitors will be placed near sources of methane, which is a significant greenhouse gas.

According to estimates to expand this program to include the entire US, at least 500 – 700 such monitors will be required.

Californians should therefore be praised for taking this initiative, in spite of the aforementioned economic situation that the state has been plagued with in recent times…

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