Origins of oil and gas sector methane emissions: on-site investigations of aerial measured sources

This study combines high-resolution, high-sensitivity aerial survey data with subsequent on-site investigations of detected sources to investigate sources driving emissions, associated options for mitigation, and the effectiveness of regulations in achieving intended outcomes. Measurements were performed in British Columbia, Canada, an active oil- and gas-producing province with modern methane regulations featuring mandatory three-times-per-year leak detection and repair (LDAR) surveys at most facilities. Derived emission factors enabled by source attribution show that significant methane emissions still persist under this regulatory framework.