Press Release

November 11, 2022

EPA Methane Plan a Step Forward for Climate

Methane has more than 80 times the warming potential of carbon dioxide in the first 20 years

The Environmental Law & Policy Center welcomes EPA’s proposal announced today to reduce methane emissions from the oil and natural gas sectors.

“Clamping down on this dangerous greenhouse gas is the next important step in the climate fight,” said ELPC Staff Attorney Ann Jaworski. “This is a move in the right direction for the EPA, and for the nation. We at ELPC look forward to reviewing and commenting on the proposal.”

Methane has more than 80 times the warming potential of carbon dioxide in the first 20 years. That makes reducing methane emissions one of the most important steps to reduce climate change in the near term.

Reducing methane emissions will also reduce levels of co-emitted pollutants like toxic benzene and volatile organic compounds that can cause cancer. Capturing methane that would otherwise be wasted can increase the natural gas supply without increased drilling.

This supplemental proposal builds on the proposal EPA issued in November 2021. ELPC is pleased to see EPA following through on its commitment to protect environmental justice communities, promote public health, and reduce climate change.