From PennFuture (http://www.pennfuture.org):
See action at end.
Methane emissions from the natural gas industry are rising faster than production across the state, pointing to a simple fact: the industry’s voluntary efforts to cut emissions are not effective. The latest data shows a 20 percent increase in methane emissions between 2014 and 2015, making the need for immediate action abundantly clear. We need strong standards to protect Pennsylvanians from methane and other pollution from oil and gas drilling.
Here’s why:
- Methane pollution is a potent greenhouse gas that causes dangerous climate change.
- Each year, more than 30,000 children in Pennsylvania will suffer asthma attacks due to ozone from this industry.
- 1.5 million Pennsylvanians live within a half-mile of active oil and gas operations. Toxic air pollution emissions can directly affect the health of individuals living adjacent to sources.
- Residents of eight counties surrounding Pittsburgh face increased cancer risks that exceed EPA’s guidelines of concern due to the level of exposure to toxic gases, including methane, spewed by the oil and gas industry.
Regrettably, Senate Bill 175 (SB 175) would restrict state efforts to solve our pollution problems and put Washington, D.C. lobbyists in charge of Pennsylvania’s air. This is unacceptable. It’s critical that our elected officials in Harrisburg take the lead on addressing the emissions problem that harms public health and exacerbates the effects of climate change.
For the sake of our health and the health of all Pennsylvanians, tell your Senator to say NO to SB 175 at https://pennfuture.salsalabs.org/contactyoursenatorstopmethanepollution/index.html.
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