TRACER

Agriculture is a major source of non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N2O). Yet current monitoring, reporting and verification (MRV) systems lack the precision, harmonisation, and real-time capacity required to support effective mitigation strategies and transparent compliance with EU and international climate objectives. TRACER will develop and validate a harmonised, near real-time, and model-integrated MRV system for CH₄ and N2O emissions from agriculture. The system combines in-situ sensors, Earth Observation data, advanced modelling, and farm-level activity data into a robust, transparent, and interoperable platform. Through nine Pilots across diverse pedo-climatic zones and farming systems (including organic), TRACER will co-design, test, and demonstrate innovative MRV approaches together with farmers, advisors, policymakers, and industry actors. The project will deliver: (i) an open digital MRV platform with real-time data integration, (ii) a user-friendThe TRACER concept reimagines MRV systems as dynamic, data-driven, and interoperable infrastructures that not only measure emissions but also generate actionable insights for climate governance. By leveraging emerging technologies, such as real-time data analytics, AI-powered analytics, and forecasting models for traceable emissions data, TRACER proposes a shift from static inventories to responsive, cross-sectoral platforms that cater to the needs of policy, market, and community stakeholders. This project addresses the urgent need for robust, harmonized, and integrated MRV frameworks across the EU and associated countries, particularly focusing on high-uncertainty sectors like agriculture. Through the lens of TRACER, the project aims to co-develop next-generation MRV systems that are transparent, verifiable, and relevant to policy, empowering Member States with the tools necessary to close the GHG reporting gap and more effectively meet climate targets.