Ceres urges timely implementation of EPA methane pollution standard to reduce waste and deliver economic gains

Ceres Senior Director of Federal Policy Zach Friedman testified today before the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, advocating for timely implementation of the methane pollution standard and opposing proposed deadline extensions for oil and gas facility upgrades to stop methane leaks. Friedman warned that delaying compliance would undermine industry progress to cut methane waste and squander opportunities to drive innovation, create jobs, strengthen U.S. leadership, and deliver public health benefits for communities nationwide. 

“Methane regulation is an economic opportunity, not a burden. It is a data-driven, market-based opportunity to reduce waste, protect public health, bolster our economy and national security, and it should not be delayed,” Friedman said during his testimony. “The good news is that we have the technology and policies in place to tackle methane cost-effectively.” 

Friedman argued that swift compliance would support the Trump administration’s goals for American energy leadership and global competitiveness, cautioning that “postponing these commonsense measures would needlessly extend billions in annual drain on our economy and health, and expose U.S. industry to avoidable risks.” 

Read Friedman’s full testimony here.  

Methane pollution has more than 80 times the warming power of carbon dioxide over the first 20 years after it reaches the atmosphere and is responsible for more than a quarter of the global warming the planet is now experiencing. Oil and gas companies emit roughly 16 million metric tons of methane every year through venting, flaring and leaks – the equivalent of about $2 billion worth of natural gas. It is estimated that energy producers are losing approximately $1 billion in lost commercial value due to methane pollution.   

When accounting for harm to the economy and human well-being, the annual cost rises to $10 billion. More than 10 million people in the U.S., including 645,400 children under the age of five, live within a half mile of active oil and gas production, breathing air polluted with methane and other contaminants. 

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About Ceres

Ceres is a nonprofit advocacy organization working to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, more just, and resilient economy. With data-driven research and expert analysis, we inspire investors and companies to act on the world's sustainability challenges and advocate for market and policy solutions. Together, our efforts transform industries, unlock new business opportunities, and foster innovation and job growth – proving that sustainability is the bottom line. For more information, visit ceres.org.