Satellite data can reveal what we can't always see

Much of the discussion focuses on the unique perspective satellite technology provides. Rather than replacing existing environmental monitoring, it adds another layer of evidence that can help governments understand what is happening on the ground.

As Justin explains, organisations already bring together huge amounts of information from national statistics, regulators and government departments to understand emissions. Satellite data becomes another piece of that puzzle, providing a more immediate picture of what's happening.

Becky highlights how Earth observation is already helping identify pollution that would otherwise be difficult to detect. "Satellite data can expose pollution that was effectively invisible to regulators."

She pointed to examples including methane monitoring, NO₂ mapping and identifying under-reported emissions, explaining that satellite data is increasingly being used alongside ground-based monitoring to improve understanding rather than replace it.

Justin also stresses that satellite data is rarely used in isolation. Much of his work involves "scavenging" data from multiple sources – combining Earth observation with existing government statistics, emissions inventories, monitoring networks and, where appropriate, technologies such as drones and local sensors. Rather than replacing traditional data collection, satellite imagery strengthens it by providing another layer of evidence that can be cross-checked and validated.

Better information doesn't reduce emissions – better decisions do

One of the strongest themes throughout the episode was that satellites do not solve environmental challenges on their own.

As Becky puts it: "They don't directly reduce emissions as such, but they do change behaviour by improving visibility."

The ability to observe emissions independently creates greater transparency and accountability. Becky describes satellite technology as "an amazing democratising tool", explaining that global Earth observation programmes can identify methane leaks and other emissions regardless of where they occur.

The discussion explored examples including Turkmenistan, where satellite observations contradicted official reporting and prompted international attention, alongside wider applications such as monitoring deforestation, supporting renewable energy planning and improving supply chain transparency.

Justin reinforces this point from another perspective. "There'll be no place to hide."

He argues that near real-time satellite observations could make it much easier to verify emissions reporting, reducing reliance on data that can take years to compile and helping governments and organisations take action sooner.

From global challenges to local decisions

The conversation also explores how satellite data can support decisions at every level. Becky highlights how Germany has used Earth observation data to inform renewable energy planning, while cities such as Paris are using satellite-derived heat mapping to understand how urban environments respond to rising temperatures.

Justin adds that many people already rely on satellite technology every day without realising it. Navigation apps that route drivers around congestion help reduce unnecessary emissions by using satellite positioning and real-time traffic data.

These examples reinforce an important theme throughout the episode – space technology is not only relevant to national governments or international climate policy. It increasingly informs local planning, infrastructure investment and everyday decisions.

Turning data into public policy

While the technology continues to improve, the panel agrees that the challenge is increasingly about how organisations use the information available to them.

Becky reflects that we are now generating more environmental data than ever before, but questioned whether public institutions have the capacity to translate that evidence into action. She points to the number of organisations involved – including Defra, the Environment Agency, Natural England and local authorities – highlighting that responsibility is often spread across multiple bodies with different remits. The challenge is no longer simply collecting information, but ensuring it can be shared, interpreted and acted upon effectively.

Phil Buckley echoes this point, arguing that the opportunity is no longer simply collecting more information.

"The data is largely there. It's about how we use it."

For public services, the value of satellite technology will ultimately depend not only on the quality of the data, but on the institutional capability, collaboration and policymaking needed to turn that evidence into better decisions.

The PSC exists to make public services brilliant. In our new podcast mini-series, we're exploring whether space and satellite technology can solve some of the public sector's biggest challenges. If you want to discuss any topics explored in this series further, get in touch with Phil Buckley – we'd love to have a conversation.