FFC Supports Natural Gas Methane Leakage Regulation

November 17, 2014

FFC believes that businesses and investors play a pivotal role in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Natural gas is a promising fuel source that is poised to ease the transition away from more pollutive energy fuel stocks, like coal. However, natural gas is not without climate impacts. The production of natural gas produces methane, a highly potent greenhouse gas that is 84 times more dangerous to our environment than carbon dioxide. Methane leakage threatens our climate, air quality and the industry’s sustainability. Fortunately, there are proven, cost-effective solutions that can dramatically cut methane emissions. These measures, which include more effective valves and leak detection and repair programs can cut methane leakage by 40%, offsetting the costs. Monitoring and evaluation of methane emissions is currently limited to voluntary industry actions and state regulations. Such efforts are inconsistent and inadequate to address this significant issue; a national policy is needed. FFC urges the EPA to develop stringent rules for methane emissions from existing and future oil and gas operations. To view the letter, click here