A presidential administration has moved to roll back federal methane emission rules targeting oil and gas companies, framing the decision as a cost-saving measure for both businesses and consumers. Critics argue the change could undermine efforts to combat climate change by reducing accountability for leaks of a potent greenhouse gas. The policy reversal is expected to eliminate certain financial penalties and operational restrictions on energy producers, while proponents claim it will lower costs and boost domestic oil production. Environmental advocates warn the move risks weakening climate protections at a critical moment.
Critics warn of climate danger as president in Texas claims change will save companies and consumers billionsDonald Trump announced his administration is “terminating” Biden-era regulations holding oil and gas companies accountable for large leaks of planet-warming methane during a rally in Lubbock, Texas, on Tuesday evening.Trump said during a campaign rally in Texas that the change would save consumers and energy producers $45bn and unlock 210 million barrels of oil – equivalent to about 10 days of US petroleum consumption. “Tonight, I’m officially terminating Biden’s expensive and unnecessary methane regulations to save consumers and energy producers,” Trump said, lifting what he called “crippling regulations on methane that caused prices to skyrocket” for small oil and gas operators. Continue reading...
