A new study conducted by Ceres, Clean Air Task Force, and Environmental Resources Management has found that carbon dioxide and methane emissions have decreased across the U.S. as oil and gas production has increased. However, in the Appalachian region, including Pennsylvania, reported total emissions have actually gone up by 4 percent despite the rise in production.
The study, based on data reported to the Environmental Protection Agency, credits state and federal policies implemented since 2015 for the overall decrease in emissions nationwide. In the Appalachian basin, the increase in total emissions is primarily due to carbon dioxide emissions as companies burn more fuel to support the surge in production.
While carbon emissions have risen, methane emissions have actually decreased by 25 percent in the region. This reduction is attributed to improved practices and technologies in the oil and gas industry. However, experts caution that the EPA’s data may not be entirely accurate, with discrepancies of up to 500 percent compared to satellite measurements.
The study also highlights the importance of new regulations, such as the EPA’s finalized New Source Performance Standards and Emissions Guidelines, in ensuring more accurate reporting and monitoring of emissions. Despite progress made in reducing emissions intensity, there is still room for improvement, with companies urged to adopt further measures to mitigate their environmental impact.
Overall, the study underscores the need for continued efforts to reduce emissions and promote sustainability in the oil and gas industry, emphasizing that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done to address the environmental challenges posed by fossil fuel production.
