Earlier this year, the BLM released its draft methane waste rule, which would stop oil and gas companies from wasting $330 million in public resources. But just as important, a final rule will be a vital component of our plan to meet our international commitments on climate.
But the clock is ticking. Every day, an 'invisible oil spill' is spewing pollution into the skies over our public lands in the form of methane, a dangerous greenhouse gas over 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide in the short term. In fact, this rule would cut as much climate pollution as taking just under a million cars off the road.
Our planet—and the President's climate legacy—can't wait any longer. Interior Secretary Sally Jewell needs to hear from you. We need to put a stop to methane pollution, and follow through on President Obama's landmark commitment between the United States, Canada, and Mexico to curb methane pollution from the oil and gas industry by 45 percent. But every month we wait, the invisible oil spill continues and we risk letting our international climate commitments slip out of our reach.
Tell Secretary Jewell it's time to finalize a methane waste rule so that we can reduce the waste, protect American communities and our planet, and fulfill our international commitments to fight climate change.
Finalize a Strong Methane Waste Rule and Fulfill Our International Commitments to Fight Climate Change
Dear Secretary Jewell,
I’m writing to urge you to finalize the Bureau of Land Management’s draft natural gas waste rule and help solidify President Obama’s commitment to combatting climate change.
The BLM has a duty to ensure a fair return to the American taxpayer by reducing that amount of methane – the primary component of natural gas – that oil and gas companies waste through flaring, venting, and leaky equipment and infrastructure.
And right now, that natural gas waste on our public lands threatens the stability of our climate .
It’s time for the BLM to finalize a strong natural gas waste rule that protects the American taxpayer and cements President Obama’s climate legacy.
Thank you for your leadership on this issue. I support the BLM’s efforts on this important issue and ask that you ensure the BLM’s rules are strengthened and finalized without delay.
[Your comments here]
Sincerely,
[Your name]
