How the New Methane Rules Will Benefit You and the Planet
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One potent greenhouse gas that has a role in climate change and global warming is methane. Additionally, it’s a waste of precious energy that could be utilised to run our establishments. Since the oil and gas sector is the main contributor of methane pollution in the US, the Biden administration has announced new regulations aimed at reducing methane emissions from this sector.
I’ll describe these new regulations, their significance, and how they will help the environment and you in this blog post.
What are the new methane rules?
The EPA’s regulations for oil and gas operators
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalised new methane regulations to restrict the amount of methane that leaks or is released from oil and gas activities. The regulations cover wells, pipelines, storage tanks, and processing facilities—all potential and current producers of methane.
Oil and gas operators are required by law to:
- To find and address significant methane leaks, use remote sensing equipment.
- At least twice a year, check all well sites for leakage.
- 50% less flaring (burning off extra gas) by 2026, and 75% less flaring by 2030
- Inform the EPA of their attempts to reduce methane emissions.
According to EPA calculations, these regulations will stop the release of 58 million tonnes of methane between 2024 and 2038. That is the same as 1.5 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide. That is an enormous number of greenhouse gases that are not going to warm our atmosphere and lead to more extreme weather occurrences.
The United States’ dedication to the global climate goals
There’s another reason why the new methane regulations matter. They will support US leadership in the international arena and assist in achieving US climate goals. Reducing methane emissions is a crucial component of President Biden’s plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50–52% below 2005 levels by 2030.
In addition, the US and the EU have pledged to cut methane emissions by 30% by 2030 under the Global Methane Pledge.
Why does the new regulation of methane matter?
Methane’s effects on the environment and public health
There are various reasons why the new methane regulations matter. They will start by defending the environment and public health. Methane is not only a pollutant of the climate; it is also a precursor to ozone, a dangerous air pollutant that can result in asthma attacks, respiratory issues, and early mortality.
In addition, methane leads to haze, smog, and acid rain, all of which harm wildlife, crops, and forests. Our drinking water and air quality can both be enhanced by reducing methane emissions.
Methane capture and utilization’s financial advantages
Secondly, they will provide employment and save money. One important resource that may be utilised to power cars, heat houses, and provide energy is methane. We can cut our reliance on foreign oil, lower our energy costs, and open up new markets and employment opportunities for American workers by capturing and using methane rather than letting it escape or burn. Over the next 15 years, the EPA projects that the new methane regulations will have a net positive impact of $8.4 billion.
What are your and the world’s benefits from the new methane regulations?
The advantages for individuals of having less expensive energy, more jobs and revenue, and cleaner air and water
You and the environment will gain much from the new methane regulations. You can anticipate the following advantages:
Cleaner water and air:
As a result of reduced exposure to methane and its byproducts, which cause air pollution and water contamination, you and your family will experience improved health and wellbeing.
Reduced energy expenses:
If you have access to more reasonably priced and dependable natural gas and renewable energy sources, your energy expenditures will go down.
More work and income:
There will be more work and income opportunities available to you.as you will be part of a growing and innovative clean energy sector that supports millions of American jobs.
The advantages of stronger, more resilient communities around the world, as well as a healthier, more habitable earth
The environment and future generations will also benefit from the new methane regulations. You can anticipate the following advantages:
Greater safety and resilience in communities: As a result of fewer threats and effects from climate change, such as heat waves, droughts, floods, wildfires, and storms, you and your community will experience greater safety and resilience.
Earth will be healthier and more habitable for you and future generations if you contribute to the preservation of the ecosystems and natural resources that support life on the planet.
In conclusion
The planet and you both benefit from the new methane regulations. They will lower greenhouse gas emissions, safeguard the environment and public health, save money and generate employment, and assist the US in taking the lead in the worldwide battle against climate change. By selecting energy-efficient equipment, reducing your driving, taking public transit, and endorsing sustainable energy legislation and programmes, you can also contribute on an individual basis. We have the power to change things and provide our kids and ourselves a better future.
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