You see, John, methane is more than 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide and comes from a lot of places. It is the main component of natural gas that is used to heat our homes, cook our food and create energy. It also is emitted from landfills, agriculture and natural spaces like wetlands. If we can drastically cut man-made methane pollution, we will see faster positive impacts on our health, our pocketbooks and the climate. 

These rules, once they are implemented and enforced, will put us well on our way to reaching EDF’s 2030 goal of reducing oil and gas methane emissions by 45% and protecting frontline communities most at risk to oil and gas pollution. This year we took some huge strides including:

• Adopting the first ever direct methane measurement rule in Colorado; 
• Launching the Dairy Methane Action Alliance to expedite the switch to climate-smart dairy amongst food producers; and 
• Offering our expertise to the EU who is about to announce their own methane rule. 

But next year, we’re going even bigger.   

In early 2024, we are launching MethaneSAT, a satellite that will pinpoint methane emissions around the world and deliver that information for free to decisionmakers. This allows them to take quick action on cutting emissions and hold polluters accountable. MethaneSAT will also help activists get the information they need to protect their communities and to make bold climate action happen at local levels. 

Methane is a massive problem. It is detrimental to our health and our climate. But it is a problem that we can solve. By working together, we are going to make methane emissions a thing of the past. 

Thanks for joining us in this journey, 

Jon Goldstein 
Senior Director, Regulatory & Legislative Affairs