EPA Unveils Emissions Reporting Plan
By: RNS Wire Service
Updated: March 11, 2009
The federal government today proposed the first comprehensive system for reporting emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases produced by major sources in the United States. The EPA reporting requirements would apply to suppliers of fossil fuel and industrial chemicals and manufacturers of motor vehicles and engines as well as direct emitters of greenhouse gases with emissions equal to or greater than 25 thousand metric tons per year. Direct emission sources covered under the reporting requirement would include energy-intensive sectors such as cement production, iron and steel production, and electricity generation, among others. Most small businesses wouldn't be required to report emissions because levels would fall well below the threshold, the EPA said. The first annual report would be submitted in 2011 for the calendar year 2010 except for vehicle and engine manufacturers which would begin reporting for model year 2011.
Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide are produced by the burning of fossil fuels and through industrial and biological processes. Approximately 13 thousand facilities accounting for about 85 percent to 90 percent of greenhouse gases emitted in the United States - would be covered under the proposal.
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