New requirements for US Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reporting | 17th Mar 2009

On March 10, 2009, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a proposed rule establishing a mandatory federal greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting program. 
 
According to EPA's proposed rule, facilities subject to the requirements would need to begin collecting emissions data on January 1, 2010, and submit annual reports to EPA starting in 2011.
 
The proposed regulations apply to a range of specific activities, including power production, industrial sources such as chemical manufacturers, iron and steel production, petroleum refineries, municipal landfills, and industrial wastewater treatment facilities.  The new rules would also apply to any entity that emits over 25,000 metric tons carbon dioxide equivalents per year.  Approximately 13,000 facilities, accounting for about 85 to 90 percent of greenhouse gases emitted in the United States, would be covered under the proposal.
 
In addition to EPA's GHG reporting program, at least 17 US states have developed or are in the process of developing mandatory greenhouse gas reporting programs. As of January 1, 2009, 12 of those programs are in effect. These state-level programs, as well as the two large regional cap-and-trade programs (the Western Climate Initiative and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative), impose varying reporting thresholds and requirements on a wide range of industrial sectors. 
 
What is Next?

EPA is accepting public comment on its proposed reporting rule for the next 60 days and will publish a final rule after review and consideration of the comments. In the meantime, facilities should determine if they will fall under the new reporting requirements and assess how well positioned they are to meeting reporting obligations under this emerging framework.

How can WSP help?

WSP Environment & Energy works with clients to shape strategic and sustainable approaches to business operations and reporting in an increasingly carbon-conscious economy. 
 
Our team of environmental, energy, and carbon experts has a proven track record of success with some of the world's leading global brands.  WSP's carbon experts can assist in determining the applicability of state and federal greenhouse gas reporting requirements and preparing detailed greenhouse gas inventories and reduction strategies that help to best achieve your business objectives.

For more information please contact Brooke Dillon on + 1 303.850.9200 or email her at brooke.dillon@wspgroup.com.