NMC Selected as IAEA Regional Expert Centre for Greenhouse Gas Analysis
News from Members - NMIJ

As the global push toward decarbonization intensifies, the authentication of low-carbon fuels has become increasingly critical. Isotopic fingerprinting has emerged as a powerful methodology for verifying fuel origins and ensuring regulatory compliance, though it presents significant metrological challenges.

These challenges include the need for high-precision instrumentation, managing complex fuel matrices, developing robust data analysis tools, and establishing metrological traceability. Advanced techniques such as isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) and newer compact systems like cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) offer promising solutions but require meticulous calibration and standardized reference materials.

International collaboration is addressing these challenges head-on. In a significant development announced at COP29 in November 2024, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has selected Singapore's A*STAR National Metrology Centre (NMC) as a Regional Expert Centre for Analysis and Training for the Asia-Pacific region.

Through this initiative, NMC will receive equipment, training, and reference materials from IAEA through December 2025, enabling it to provide specialized training and analytical services throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The work directly supports the World Meteorological Organization's Global Atmosphere Watch (GAW) Programme, which coordinates high-quality atmospheric composition observations across global to local scales to drive high-quality science and services.

Led by NMC scientist Dr. Kai Fuu Ming, this collaboration strengthens the GAW observational network—recognized as part of the Global Climate Observing System—while helping countries identify significant greenhouse gas emission sources through isotopic fingerprinting. The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 13.2 by providing evidence-based tools for integrating climate measures into national policies.

This partnership enhances regional capabilities, equipping member states with standardized approaches to emissions monitoring while supporting the transition to sustainable energy systems through reliable authentication of low-carbon fuels.

Dr. Kai Fuu Ming

kai_fuu_ming@nmc.a-star.edu.sg