Wyoming Air Board Approves Plan to Cut Oil, Gas Pollution
Statement from Jon Goldstein, EDF Senior Energy Policy Manager
(PINEDALE, Wyoming—Dec. 10, 2014) The Wyoming Air Quality Advisory Board today approved measures that would reduce smog and improve air quality in the state’s Upper Green River Basin ozone nonattainment area. The proposal, if passed by the Wyoming Environmental Quality Council next year, will require oil and gas operators to adopt sensible, cost effective measures such as regular leak detection inspections on existing well sites and compressor stations to reduce regional air pollution.
“These new rules are a significant step toward reducing leaks from oil and gas equipment and helping restore healthy air to the citizens of Pinedale and surrounding communities. This marks the first time the state has moved forward on rules that target older, existing sources of oil and gas pollution — a strong precedent as other parts of Wyoming and the country grapple with the impacts of oil and gas drilling on healthy air.
“While we believe there is room to improve this proposal as it moves to the EQC, we strongly support the AQAB’s approval of these measures. Many aspects of the proposal again demonstrate Wyoming’s tradition of national leadership on clean air measures for oil and gas activities.”
- Jon Goldstein, Senior Energy Policy Manger
One of the world’s leading international nonprofit organizations, Environmental Defense Fund (edf.org) creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships. With more than 3 million members and offices in the United States, China, Mexico, Indonesia and the European Union, EDF’s scientists, economists, attorneys and policy experts are working in 28 countries to turn our solutions into action. Connect with us on Twitter @EnvDefenseFund
Media Contact
Latest press releases
-
Public Interest Groups Defend SEC’s Climate Risk Disclosure Rule
August 15, 2024 -
Puerto Rico Hit by Tropical Storm Ernesto
August 14, 2024 -
La Tormenta Tropical Ernesto toca tierra en Puerto Rico
August 14, 2024 -
Localized air monitoring in New York’s disadvantaged communities underscores the need for immediate action to cut air pollution
August 14, 2024 -
Appeals Court Rejects Attempt to Block Mercury and Air Toxics Protections
August 6, 2024 -
New Study Provides Comprehensive Estimates of Methane Emissions from Canada’s Oil and Gas Industry Based on Direct Measurements
August 6, 2024