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Methane Waste Prevention Act of 2021
4/17/2024, 11:45 PM
Summary of Bill HR 1492
The bill specifically targets the practice of venting and flaring, which releases methane into the atmosphere rather than capturing it for use or sale. By requiring companies to implement technology to capture methane and reduce waste, the bill aims to reduce the environmental impact of oil and gas operations on public lands.
Additionally, the Methane Waste Prevention Act of 2021 includes provisions for increased monitoring and reporting of methane emissions, as well as penalties for non-compliance. This is intended to ensure that companies are held accountable for their methane emissions and incentivize them to adopt more sustainable practices. Overall, the bill represents a significant step towards addressing methane emissions from oil and gas operations on public lands and combating climate change. It reflects a growing recognition of the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to more sustainable energy practices.
Congressional Summary of HR 1492
Methane Waste Prevention Act of 2021
This bill establishes requirements to reduce methane emissions from the oil and natural gas sector. Methane is emitted during the production and transport of coal, natural gas, and oil.
Specifically, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must issue regulations that require the sector to reduce methane emissions over time. By 2025, methane emissions must be at least 65% below 2012 emissions. By 2030, the emissions must be at least 90% below 2012 emissions.
The Department of the Interior must also establish regulations to reduce and prevent the waste of natural gas on federal land and Indian lands, including waste from venting, flaring, and fugitive releases. The regulations must include consistent enforcement mechanisms for any oil or gas operations that are not in compliance.




