EPA Proposes to Eliminate Costly Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, Potentially Saving Businesses $2.4 Billion

Washington D.C. – Today, U.S. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin revealed a plan, following President Trump’s executive orders, to end the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP). This move could potentially save businesses around $2.4 billion in regulatory costs without sacrificing the EPA’s responsibilities under the Clean Air Act.

According to Zeldin, the GHGRP is mainly administrative and doesn’t significantly contribute to environmental improvement. He argues that it burdens American businesses and increases living costs. “We aim to cut unnecessary red tape while still protecting human health,” he stated.

The GHGRP currently requires over 8,000 facilities to submit greenhouse gas emission details yearly. After reviewing its impact, the EPA believes the program is not essential for meeting regulatory standards. Thus, they propose eliminating reporting needs for most facilities, except those tied to the Waste Emissions Charge (WEC).

Historically, the GHGRP was created in 2008 and started reporting in 2010. Recent legislative changes have sparked renewed focus on emissions. For example, the Biden administration introduced a methane tax for certain fossil fuel operations in 2024, aiming to reduce emissions significantly. This section of the Clean Air Act was amended to require charges for excess emissions starting in 2034.

Public reaction to the EPA’s proposal has been mixed. While some industry voices applaud the move as a way to streamline compliance and cut costs, others express concern over potential environmental implications. A recent survey indicated that over 60% of environmental groups believe stricter regulations are vital for combating climate change.

The EPA will open a public comment period soon. For more details on how to provide input, check the EPA’s website.

This proposal reflects a larger conversation about balancing environmental responsibilities with economic growth. As energy policies evolve under different administrations, using data responsibly and transparently remains crucial for protecting our environment.

For additional information on greenhouse gas reporting and ongoing regulatory changes, visit the EPA website.

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