Greg Seeley House District 27 | Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized new standards aimed at curbing methane pollution from the oil and gas sector. These regulations represent the first national standards specifically targeting methane emissions, a greenhouse gas significantly more potent than carbon dioxide in the short term.
The EPA's recent Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report identified the oil and gas industry as the primary source of methane emissions in the United States. The report indicates that emissions are 34% higher than previous estimates, with over 9.8 million metric tons released annually.
This lost methane also signifies lost revenue for taxpayers, with New Mexico alone missing out on over $42.7 million in royalty income since 2009. In New Mexico, a significant majority of registered voters support initiatives to reduce methane pollution.
The new regulations form part of the Obama Administration's Climate Action Plan, which aims to cut methane emissions by 40-45% from 2012 levels by 2025.
Mike Eisenfeld of San Juan Citizens Alliance highlighted the significance of addressing high emissions in New Mexico's Four Corners Region, noting its impact on both public health and local economies reliant on tourism.
Sister Joan Brown emphasized that reducing greenhouse gases aligns with moral obligations under international agreements like the UN Paris Climate Agreement and benefits future generations' health.
Camilla Feibelman from the Sierra Club praised the economic and environmental benefits of capturing methane, citing support from various political figures who recognize these advantages for business and job creation.
Molly Sanders pointed out health risks associated with oil and gas emissions, including worsening smog and respiratory issues. She called for swift action on rules addressing existing sources of pollution impacting New Mexicans' health.
Thomas Singer from the Western Environmental Law Center described these measures as crucial to combating climate change. He noted that by covering aspects such as oil well drilling and equipment leaks, these rules could equate to removing 1.7 million cars' worth of annual climate pollution by 2025.
