Digital Data Story for Environment Defense Fund

Context

In a world fixated on carbon dioxide, methane's devastating impact flew under the radar. With 80 times the warming power of CO2 in the short term, the odorless and invisible gas silently fuels our climate crisis. Enter MethaneSAT, a groundbreaking satellite introduced by the Environmental Defense Fund poised to revolutionize how we track and combat this potent greenhouse gas.

But how do you communicate the urgency of a threat most can't see or understand? Traditional climate change messaging fell short, failing to ignite action on methane's outsized impact. The challenge wasn't just scientific; it was one of perception and engagement.

See the Project

Create

Pentagram created a visual identity as bold as the mission itself. Stark black and white with bold type.

We took this vision and infused it into the data visualization story of MethaneSAT: imagery collides with fiery data visualizations, bringing methane's hidden menace to life.

The long-scroll website becomes journey from problem to solution, translating complex science into compelling, actionable narratives.

Breaking through the noise required a multifaceted approach:

Data as storyteller: after an audit of all the science available on methane, as well as a review, we carefully selected the right data and messaging for the story. Animated infographics transform abstract emissions data into visceral, easy-to-grasp visuals.
Urgency in design: utilizing the new assertive brand typeface and high-contrast palette underscore the critical nature of MethaneSAT's mission. Layering photography with the actual data visualization allowed us to connect abstract numbers to tangible consequences.
From space to screen: We created a seamless journey from satellite technology to user engagement, ensuring the website serves as both educational tool and call to action.

Create

“

For the first time, policy markers and the public can really understand important the magnitude of emissions but also where the emissions are coming from. The countries and companies responsible, and hold them accountable.

Mark Brownstein
‍SVP, Energy transition Environmental Defense Fund Source

The MethaneSAT team now have a powerful visual arsenal to drive regulatory and corporation change. Industry leaders can no longer hide behind methane's invisibility. And the public is armed with knowledge, transforming from passive observers to advocates for our planet's future.

As MethaneSAT was preparing for launch, its digital presence stands ready to amplify its earthbound impact. MethaneSAT story isn't just a brand; it's a reimagining of how we visualize, understand, and combat one of climate change's most elusive foes.

Impact

Credits

Thank you to the Pentagram team for getting us involved in this project and to the MethaneSAT team for their enthusiasm, insightful feedback, and unwavering commitment to addressing climate change.

Creative Direction

Paul Lenaers
Ed Ryan
Gabrielle Merite

Logo & Brand Design‍

Paul Lenaers

Data Visualization Design

Gabrielle Merite

Web, Deck & Social Media Design

Gabrielle Merite
Ed Ryan

Partners‍

Abbot Miller
Giorgia Lupi

Project Management

Michelle Brown
Madeleine Garner

Strategy

Phillip Cox

Environmental Defense Fund

Elevating methane awareness to ground climate action

Context

Create

Create

For the first time, policy markers and the public can really understand important the magnitude of emissions but also where the emissions are coming from. The countries and companies responsible, and hold them accountable.

Impact

Credits