Letter to the editor: Tackling methane waste
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I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to U.S. Rep. Summer Lee for her commitment to addressing the critical issue of methane waste. Lee’s support for policies like the Methane Emission Reduction Program’s Waste Emissions Charge, or Methane Polluter Fee — aimed at minimizing methane gas emissions and reducing the harmful air pollution released alongside it — is a vital step in protecting the health and future of our communities.
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, poses serious risks to public health and safety. The oil and gas industry is a major source of these emissions, and the communities located near these operations often bear the brunt of the associated health impacts. These communities face increased exposure to air pollution, which can lead to respiratory, cardiovascular and other serious health issues.
Lee’s support for policies like these demonstrates a clear understanding of the urgency and importance of tackling methane emissions. Unfortunately, Congress ultimately voted to repeal the implementing rule for the Waste Emission Charge. Going forward, I urge all our elected leaders in Washington, D.C., to advocate for policies that will prevent waste and provide much-needed relief to communities most vulnerable to the negative impacts of oil and gas development.
Talor Musil
Manchester