Letter to the editor: Stronger methane controls a win for Pa.

Earlier this month, Gov. Josh Shapiro announced that he will direct the Department of Environmental Protection to develop stronger controls for methane emissions from the oil and gas sector. This is a big step forward for not only safeguarding Pennsylvania residents and energy consumers, but also beginning to tackle our state’s considerable greenhouse gas footprint.

Reducing methane emissions is one of the fastest and most cost- effective ways to slow climate change, which is increasingly impacting our state. From expanded wildfire smoke worsening the air to extreme rain and flooding events , this is no longer an abstract threat. Climate change is directly costing communities and impacting Pennsylvanians.

Stronger methane controls also protect public health, since these measures can simultaneously reduce the release of hazardous air pollutants, as well. These emissions aren’t just limited to well pads — they occur across the entire chain of production and delivery. As we look ahead to how Pennsylvania will transition to a cleaner energy profile, and how natural gas remains part of our generation mix in the years ahead, we need to account for and improve emission controls across the board.

Fortunately, there have been tremendous federal investment commitments made to help us get there. The Environmental Protection Agency is also looking to provide assistance to the natural gas industry to reduce emissions. The industry has proven it can adapt and succeed. Pennsylvania can, as well. Shapiro’s commitment on methane is a tremendous step in the right direction.

John Walliser

Sewickley

The writer is the senior vice president, legal and government affairs, for the Pennsylvania Environmental Council