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Trump’s EPA is letting America’s leakiest oil and gas companies off the hook
The EPA has proposed weakening Biden-era rules that required oil and gas companies to monitor and reduce methane leaks. President Donald Trump announced the change at a campaign rally, saying it would cut costs for energy producers and consumers, while environmental groups warn that weaker controls could worsen climate change and pollution near oil and gas sites.
The 2023 rule required companies to inspect wells and pipelines, monitor emissions, improve equipment and reduce routine flaring. The EPA estimated it would prevent 58 million tonnes of methane emissions over 15 years and stop 400 billion cubic feet of natural gas being wasted each year, enough to heat nearly 8 million US homes in winter. Methane accounts for about 12 per cent of US greenhouse gas emissions and is roughly 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide over 20 years.
In short
- The EPA has proposed loosening federal methane rules for oil and gas companies.
- Trump says the change would save $45 billion and boost energy production.
- The existing rule was projected to prevent major emissions and gas waste.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of the proposed change argue that easing the 2023 requirements could lower compliance costs for energy producers and, potentially, energy prices for consumers. They may also contend that companies should have flexibility to choose cost-effective ways to manage leaks, and that regulation should not impose burdens greater than the benefits it delivers.
The case against
Opponents argue that routine inspections and equipment improvements can prevent large amounts of methane from escaping and stop valuable natural gas from being wasted. They say weaker requirements could increase climate-warming emissions and pollution near oil and gas sites, shifting environmental and health costs onto the public.
Explained simply
Oil and gas production can release methane when it escapes from wells, pipelines and other equipment, or is burned off in routine flaring. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, and leaks can also affect air quality near production sites.
The US Environmental Protection Agency sets rules on pollution from industry. A 2023 rule required oil and gas companies to check for leaks and improve equipment; it was intended to limit emissions and reduce natural gas wasted into the air or burned off. President Donald Trump and his administration have argued that easing such requirements would lower costs for energy producers and consumers, while environmental groups say weaker controls could increase climate and local pollution risks.
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